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Michael Mainville, a 48-year-old Canadian, brings a wealth of experience and expertise to his new role. Throughout his career at AFP, Michael has covered some of the most significant events across the globe. He graduated from Carleton University in Ottawa and worked as a freelance journalist in Russia for several years before joining AFP in 2007 as its correspondent in the Caucasus, where he covered the 2008 war between Russia and Georgia. He later moved to Paris where he worked on the Europe/Africa desk and as a correspondent covering France and international affairs. In 2014, he became head of the AFP English desk in Nicosia and in 2017 deputy chief editor for the Middle East. He became the Moscow bureau chief in October 2018 and oversaw AFP's coverage of the war in Ukraine.

Michael has been recognized for his outstanding journalism, exceptional leadership skills, and invaluable contributions to AFP. He has built a reputation as a trusted and respected journalist with a deep understanding of the political, economic, and social dynamics of the regions he has covered.

In his new role, Michael will be responsible for overseeing AFP's coverage of the Asia-Pacific region, which includes some of the world's fastest-growing economies and most populous countries, by working closely with regional bureau chiefs, editors and journalists. Michael will also lead efforts to expand AFP's commercial reach in the region, driving new partnerships and revenue streams.

Michael is taking over from Philippe Massonnet, who has retired. Like his predecessor, he will be based in Hong Kong, AFP’s regional headquarters.