Statutory auditor (commissaire aux comptes)
An independent professional in France responsible for certifying that a company’s annual accounts give a true and fair view of its financial position. Appointment is mandatory above certain thresholds: balance sheet above 4 M€, revenue above 8 M€, or more than 50 employees for SA structures.
In practice
The presence of a statutory auditor strengthens the credibility of accounts with banks, investors, and commercial partners — even when not legally required. For a growing SME planning a capital raise, appointing a statutory auditor 12 to 18 months in advance accelerates due diligence and reassures investors. A statutory auditor certifies; they do not manage. Conflating the two roles is a common mistake among founders.