[1][additional citation(s) needed] Gallois headed several government departments during his career.

[2] He was appointed head of the civil and military cabinet in the French defense ministry (1988–1989).

[3] Gallois joined EADS on 2 July 2006 following the resignation of Noël Forgeard.

On 9 October 2006 Gallois replaced Christian Streiff as the CEO of the aircraft manufacturer Airbus S.A.S.

Gallois is a member of the board of directors of École Centrale Paris and President of the Fondation Villette-Entreprises.