The DuPont Europe office opened in London in 1905 to license patents and trade marks for subsidiary companies and to observe developing European technology. The office served as a liaison with London banks which financed DuPont purchases of raw materials in international markets. In 1933 the role of the London office was expanded with the office manager serving as director of European sales offices.

During the years 1929-1936 Harry Haon was assigned to the position of Technical Representative of the DuPont European Office. His technical and sales background was good preparation when he was promoted to the position of Manager of DuPont Europe in October 1954.

By the late 1950s DuPont decided that a central office in Europe was necessary to develop amd market new products and to explore global markets. By 1962 Geneva, Switzerland became the hub of DuPont's European business. Haon was given the choice of relocating to Geneva or to retire from the company. He chose to retire and remain in London.