Other Vivendi directors, for their part, say they still felt blindsided to learn that billions of dollars were being spent to buy shares, adding to the company's already significant debts, according to sources close to the board.
They contend that it was Messier's obligation to consult with them more fully about the program and its repercussions.
In addition, Hannezo sharply disagreed with Messier on the wisdom of the share buybacks, and at one point he established procedures in his department to prevent Messier from placing orders. The former CFO eventually reached a compromise with Messier to curtail the costly share buybacks, sources close to the former management team say.
In his new book, "My True Diary," Messier said none of Hannezo's warnings went unheeded and that he respected his provocative style. The two, who both worked at the French finance ministry in the 1980s, have been friends for years.
Messier does concede in his book that he made mistakes at Vivendi, including overextending the company with too many acquisitions and drawing too much attention to himself and his jet-set lifestyle straddling Paris and New York.
But Messier largely blames his demise on market rumors and a coterie of influential French businessmen who were offended by his Hollywood lifestyle and his perceived slights toward French culture.
As for his own conduct, Messier makes no apologies, asserting in the introduction of his book: "I have nothing to hide."
