When Bertrand Bellanger convenes a meeting with his chief of staff, discussions often gravitate towards the meticulous allocation of departmental subsidies. “We need to ensure that funds aren’t being spent haphazardly,” he asserts. This focus is emblematic of Bellanger’s commitment to fiscal discipline—a trait deeply rooted in his extensive experience in the private sector.
Since assuming the presidency of the Seine-Maritime department in 2019, Bellanger has been a proponent of integrating corporate management principles into public administration. Central to his approach is the adoption of Zero-Based Budgeting (ZBB), colloquially referred to as the “BBZ method” in the region—a nod to his initials. This strategy is garnering attention beyond departmental borders, positioning Seine-Maritime as a model for innovative public financial management.
From Corporate Boardrooms to Public Service
Bellanger’s professional journey commenced in the 1980s with the co-founding of Mediaplus, a company specializing in computer hardware. He later helmed Sédibex, a subsidiary of Veolia focused on waste treatment, where he honed his skills in efficiency and cost control over a decade. This corporate tenure instilled in him a results-driven mindset, emphasizing data-informed decision-making—a philosophy he has seamlessly transitioned into his public service role.
“Those years in business are when he developed his economic pragmatism,” notes Christophe Bouillon, a seasoned departmental councilor who has collaborated with Bellanger for over a decade.
Implementing Zero-Based Budgeting in Public Administration
Traditional public budgeting often involves incremental adjustments to the previous year’s allocations. In contrast, ZBB requires a comprehensive reevaluation of all expenditures from the ground up annually. Every department must justify each expense anew, ensuring that funds are allocated based on current needs and priorities rather than historical patterns.
“Zero-based budgeting forces you to explain the ‘why’ before the ‘how much,'” Bellanger has emphasized in past interviews. While this method demands significant time and resources, it promotes transparency and ensures that spending aligns with strategic objectives.
The tangible benefits of this approach are evident. In 2024, Moody’s upgraded Seine-Maritime’s credit rating, citing enhanced budgetary performance and a steadfast commitment to long-term financial health. This recognition underscores the efficacy of Bellanger’s fiscal strategies in bolstering the department’s financial standing.
Strategic Investments: Bridging the Digital Divide
Bellanger’s commitment to prudent spending is exemplified in initiatives like the distribution of digital tablets to students and teachers at Jean-Lecanuet Middle School in Rouen. This program aims to modernize classrooms and reduce the digital divide, reflecting a targeted investment in education.
Rather than indiscriminate funding, such initiatives are grounded in thorough needs assessments and performance metrics. Bellanger’s approach ensures that public funds are deployed effectively, maximizing their impact on the community.
“Public money should be treated with the same seriousness and scrutiny as private capital,” he often asserts, highlighting his dedication to responsible fiscal management.
Expanding Influence: The BBZ Method as a Model
What began as a localized administrative reform is now capturing the attention of other regional governments across France. The “BBZ method” is being discussed as a potential blueprint for broader public sector reform, especially in an era marked by budgetary constraints and heightened public expectations.
While some critics caution that this approach may overlook the nuanced needs of certain social programs or smaller communities, many acknowledge its role in fostering a culture of fiscal responsibility within the department.
Harmonizing Efficiency with Empathy
Bellanger is quick to clarify that ZBB is not synonymous with austerity. Instead, it emphasizes deliberate and impactful allocation of resources. “Compassion and caution can coexist,” he notes. “It’s not about spending less; it’s about spending smarter.”
Despite his reputation for stringent fiscal oversight, colleagues describe Bellanger as deeply committed to public service and attuned to the real-world implications of policy decisions. Initiatives like digital inclusion programs and infrastructure revitalization efforts reflect a balanced application of business acumen and social consciousness.
Navigating Challenges: Political Landscape and Fiscal Reforms
Implementing ZBB in the public sector is not without challenges. The process is time-intensive and requires a cultural shift within governmental departments accustomed to traditional budgeting methods. Additionally, political dynamics can influence the adoption and sustainability of such reforms.
In the broader context, France’s fiscal landscape has faced scrutiny. In October 2024, Moody’s adjusted France’s credit rating outlook to negative, citing concerns over budget deficits and political challenges in implementing fiscal reforms. This national backdrop underscores the significance of successful regional initiatives like those in Seine-Maritime, which can serve as exemplars of effective financial governance.
Conclusion: Pioneering a New Paradigm in Public Finance
In a climate where public spending is often scrutinized for inefficiencies, Bertrand Bellanger’s integration of private-sector principles into public administration offers a compelling narrative of innovation and accountability. Seine-Maritime’s experience with Zero-Based Budgeting demonstrates that with strategic planning and a commitment to transparency, public institutions can achieve fiscal health without compromising their service mandates.
As the BBZ method gains traction, it presents a potential roadmap for other regions seeking to enhance their financial management practices. Bellanger’s leadership exemplifies how a fusion of business acumen and public service ethos can drive meaningful reform, setting a precedent for future governance models in France and beyond.