Gucci, Francesca Bellettini new CEO and president. De Meo: 'We need a leaner organisation'.

Francesca Bellettini is the new CEO and president of Gucci, the flagship brand (and big sickie) of the Kering luxury group. The decision, anticipated in recent days by several rumours, follows the installation of the French group's new CEO, Luca de Meo, on Monday 15 September. Stefano Cantino, who had officially been at the helm of the double-G brand since 1 January 2025, therefore leaves after just over eight months.

"At this crucial moment, I intend to build a leaner and clearer organisation, with the best talent at the helm of our maisons. Gucci, as the flagship brand of our group, must be given the utmost attention, and Francesca - one of the most experienced and respected professionals in the industry - will bring the leadership and excellence in execution needed to bring the brand back to the level it deserves," said Luca de Meo.

Francesca Bellettini, who served as CEO of Saint Laurent from 2013 to 2023, a brand she guided through a parabola of strong growth, commented: "I am truly honoured to take direct responsibility for Gucci, one of the world's most iconic luxury maisons. I am thrilled to be working under the leadership of Luca de Meo, whose innovative and disruptive vision inspires us to push the boundaries. I look forward to facing this new challenge together with the entire Gucci team and alongside Demna, whose creativity I have always admired".

Bellettini currently held the role of head of brand development and deputy ceo of the Kering group jointly with Jean-Marc Duplaix. With the elimination of this figure, Duplaix will continue as chief operating officer of Kering, supporting Luca de Meo in the development of the group and the management of its organisation.

The first test for Gucci, which recorded a -26% drop in revenues in the first half of the year, will be during the upcoming Milan Fashion Week: a private event is planned for 23 September, aimed at a very few customers and stakeholders, during which the new creative director Demna will present his first vision for the brand with a film. An actual collection, presented with a fashion show, on the other hand, is scheduled for March 2026.