Maurice Roucel

Maurice Roucel is widely considered one of the most influential perfumers of his generation. Born in 1946 in Cherbourg, Normandy, Roucel discovered his passion for fragrance at a young age, captivated by the scents of L'Oréal sunscreen, French fries, and beach kiosks during trips to the beach with his mother, a schoolteacher. These early sensory impressions would form the foundation for a lifelong career characterized by emotion, authenticity, and olfactory richness.

Roucel began his professional career in 1973 as a chemist in the Chanel laboratories, where he spent six formative years. There, he learned the refined art of haute perfumery under the tutelage of Henri Robert, Chanel's in-house perfumer at the time. This unique apprenticeship laid the technical and aesthetic foundation that would distinguish Roucel's work in the years that followed.

After his time at Chanel, Roucel continued his development as a perfumer at Quest International, where he worked for twelve years and began developing his signature love of magnolia (Michelia longifolia)—a note that would later become emblematic of his style. In 1996, he joined Symrise, one of the world's leading fragrance and flavor companies, where he continues to work as a Master Perfumer. His trademark is a bold sensuality, achieved through opulent blends of musk, white flowers, and amber, making his compositions both daring and timeless.

Maurice Roucel's creative approach is deeply personal. He describes himself as self-taught, curious, and inspired by life in all its unpredictability. With the motto "live life and don't look back," he embraces an open, fearless attitude that fuels his creative process. Despite his extraordinary success, he remains humble and down-to-earth, constantly seeking new sources of inspiration in everyday experiences, people, and emotions.

Throughout his illustrious career, Roucel has collaborated with the most prestigious luxury brands and has also played a vital role in the development of niche perfumery, most notably through his long-standing partnership with Frédéric Malle. His extensive portfolio includes some of the most iconic fragrances of the past four decades: 24 Faubourg by Hermès , Tocade and Rochas Man Intense by Rochas , Insolence by Guerlain , Hypnôse Homme by Lancôme, Be Delicious by DKNY, L de Lolita Lempicka , Kenzo Air , Byzance by Rochas, Beautiful Day by Castelbajac, and Uncut Gem for Frédéric Malle .

He is also the author of contemporary hits such as Replica Matcha Meditation by Maison Margiela , Joyeux Osmanthe by Maison Rebatchi, and Jaïpur Bouquet by Boucheron. His versatility in both mainstream and niche segments has made him one of the few perfumers whose work spans generations and styles with equal impact.

Maurice Roucel's excellence has been recognized with numerous awards. In 2002, he received the Prix François Coty and in 2011, he was appointed Chevalier de l'Ordre des Arts et des Lettres by the French Ministry of Culture. In 2018, he was honored by the Fragrance Foundation for Beautiful Day , and in 2022, he received the Lifetime Achievement Award in Dubai.

A true legend in the world of perfumery, Maurice Roucel continues to inspire with his generous spirit, innovative vision, and uncompromising sensuality—proof that some creations, like great perfumers, are destined to endure.