Kering and Lvmh focus on management renewal

The difficult moment of the luxury industry leads its protagonists to invest in a change of top management: Kering has announced the appointment of the new CEOs of Saint Laurent and Balenciaga, Cédric Charbit and Gianfranco Gianangeli respectively, as of 2 January 2025. Both will report to Francesca Bellettini, Kering Deputy ceo, responsible for the brand development of the maisons, roles to which she will be able to devote herself entirely, thus leaving the position of ceo and president of Saint Laurent, which she held since 2013.

Charbit, who joined Kering in 2012 as director of product strategy for Saint Laurent, had himself been ceo of Balenciaga since 2016. Gianangeli has solid experience in the luxury sector, having worked for several renowned Italian and French fashion houses, in merchandising and retail roles, and as Ceo of Maison Margiela.

"I have had the privilege of knowing and working closely with both of them for many years. I have no doubt that Cédric and Gianfranco are the best choices to take the reins of Saint Laurent and Balenciaga. I am certain that they will achieve excellence in their new roles, leading their respective Maisons to even greater success," said Francesca Bellettini.

"These appointments further strengthen our organisation," said François-Henri Pinault, chairman and CEO of Kering, in a note released by the group. With Francesca Bellettini fully dedicated to her role as Kering deputy ceo, responsible for brand development, including the jewellery houses, and Jean-Marc Duplaix, as Kering deputy ceo and chief operating officer, and aiming to ensure that all departments work in synergy to support the brands to achieve the group's objectives, we are equipped with the right leadership to face the current challenges of the sector and define the guidelines for long-term growth".

Also within Kering, on 9 October Stefano Cantino was appointed as the new CEO of Gucci.