Born in 1957. Sud-Ouest, France. Degree in English. Qualified English teacher and special adviser for the National Education Ministry on cultural development in lower secondary schools. Deputy mayor of Perpignan, with responsibility for education and childhood, public relations and international relations (1993-2009). President of the Committee on Europe for the town of Perpignan (1993-2009). International and European Affairs delegate (since June 2009). Member of the Perpignan Mediterranean Area Community Council. Member of the UMP bureau for Pyrénées Orientales.UMP National Secretary in charge of European regional and territorial policies.Member of the French mayors Association (2001-2009).Member of the Association of mayors of French large cities (2008-2009).EPP Group Vice-coordinator in the Culture and Education committee. Knight of the Order of Academic Palms (2006). MEP since 2009.