In 1974, Philippe Louis-Dreyfus joined Banque Louis Dreyfus where he created a specialized shipping finance department. In 1986, he left his family group to work with Banque Pallas France, in charge of the business and corporate division. In 1994, he became President of Credit Naval. In 1996, he returned to his family business to take the responsibility of Louis Dreyfus Armateurs, of which, together with his children, he finally took over 100% control.

Philippe Louis-Dreyfus is Vice-President of Armateurs de France and also Vice-President of ECSA. He is also now President of BIMCO. He is member of the board and Vice-President of Medef International, and of the French Foreign Trade Advisors.

Philippe Louis-Dreyfus is also Commandeur of the Légion d’Honneur, and Officer of the British Empire (OBE). He also served in the French Army as an Airborne Cavalry Officer. He has been a French Team Champion in squash and selected at National University level in Rugby.