Francesca Bellettini, former deputy CEO at Kering, has been appointed president and chief executive officer of Gucci. Image credit: Kering/Marco Cella
French luxury conglomerate Kering is placing one of its most seasoned executives at the helm of a flagship house.
Francesca Bellettini, former deputy CEO, has been appointed president and chief executive officer of Italian fashion label Gucci. The announcement comes as Kering streamlines the group’s management structure, eliminating the deputy CEO function.
“At this pivotal moment, I intend to build a leaner and clearer organization in which the best talent drive our Houses forward,” said Luca de Meo, chief executive officer of Kering, in a statement.
“Gucci, as the flagship of our Group, deserves the sharpest focus, and Francesca — one of the most seasoned and respected professionals in our industry — will bring the leadership and flawless execution needed to restore the brand to its rightful place.”
New direction
Kering is sharpening its focus on Gucci; the maison remains central to the conglomerate’s growth strategy. Ms. Bellettini will now report directly to Mr. de Meo.
Named president and CEO of French fashion house Saint Laurent in 2013, she was most recently in charge of groupwide brand development, assuming the role in 2023 (see story).
Gucci storefront in NYC. Image credit: Gucci
Alongside the appointment, executive Jean-Marc Duplaix will stay on as Kering’s COO, continuing to support Mr. de Meo with organizational efforts.
“I am truly honored to take on direct responsibility for Gucci, one of the world’s most iconic luxury Houses,” said Ms. Bellettini, in a statement.
“I look forward to working under the leadership of Luca de Meo, whose innovative and fresh perspective inspires us to push boundaries,” she said. “I’m excited to embark on this new challenge together with the whole Gucci team and alongside Demna, whose creativity I have always admired.”