Born in Therouanne, France, Houllier moved to Liverpool in the 1960's, where he began teaching at Alsop School in Walton.  Houllier's love for Liverpool began when he stood on the Kop and witnessed the team beat Dundalk 10-0 in a European match.

After returning to France Houllier began his managerial career and in 1973 became player/ coach with Le Touquet.  He then had spells with Arras and Noeux Les Mines before he managed Lens for three seasons.  Whilst working for Lens his talents were noticed by Paris St. Germain, who he would take to the French Title in 1986.

After his spell with Paris St. Germain, Houllier was appointed to the French National squad, where he had roles as Technical Director and assistant manager, before he became National Coach, a post he held until 1994.  In 1996 he led the French under 18's to the European under-18's Championship, and in 1997 took the under-20's to the quarter finals of the under-20's World Cup.

By the summer of 1998 Houllier's undoubted talents were much sought after, and Liverpool moved quickly to secure his services.

After the departure of Roy Evans, Houllier set about rebuilding the squad in the summer of 1999, releasing many established players and bringing in many new faces.  Steady progress followed and in 2001 Houllier led Liverpool to their first trophy in six years, as the team won the Worthington Cup (League Cup).  This was quickly followed by both the FA Cup and UEFA Cup, ensuring Liverpool ended the season with a unique treble of cup competitions.  At the start of the following season he would also add the Charity Shield and UEFA Super Cup to his collection.

Sadly for Houllier ill health cut short the 01/02 season, as he faced major heart surgery in October 2001.  Thankfully he recovered and returned to managerial duties in March 2002 as Liverpool played Roma at Anfield.  Liverpool would end the season second in the League and would reach the quarter finals of the Champions League.  On any other season Liverpool's point haul for the 01/02 season would have seen them claim the Premier League title, but sadly for Houllier and Liverpool, Arsenal were in imperious form that season, winning the title by 7 points.

Despite the glory of the 01/02 season and the advances made in the Premier League, Houllier was seen by many fans as being too negative, with his teams relying on a solid defence and counter attacking football.  Although this stood the team in good stead for away matches, at home, the fans were disappointed by Liverpool's inability to score goals and kill off teams.

As results suffered and Liverpool failed to produce another serious title challenge the pressure on Houllier grew.  Although the team won the Worthington Cup again in 2003, by the summer of 2004 Houllier's time in charge of Liverpool was coming to an end.  Despite his determination to remain in the job and a belief that he could succeed, Houllier reluctantly agreed to leave the club in May 2004.

Since leaving Liverpool Houllier has gone on to lead Lyon to multiple French titles and established the team as a major force in European Competition, with the club reaching the knock-out stages of the Champions League on two occasions.  Houllier has now left Lyon and is regularly seen at Anfield, commentating for radio or TV stations.

In 2003 Gerard Houllier was awarded the prestigious OBE for his services to football.  It is a fitting tribute for a loyal servant and fan of the club, who lived his dream of bringing glory to Anfield, if only for a short period.