The luxury watch industry is experiencing a wave of significant leadership changes, as top executives take on new roles to navigate their brands through evolving market dynamics and ever-changing consumer preferences. 

These executive movements highlight a period of transformation and strategic realignment in the luxury watch sector, as brands aim to stay ahead in a competitive and ever-evolving market. Here’s a roadmap of who’s who, who’s where, and what to expect from them next.

Richemont Group

Nicolas Bos, CEO of Richemont
Previously CEO of Van Cleef & Arpels

Nicolas Bos is currently the Chief Executive Officer of Richemont since his appointment to the Senior Executive Committee on June 1, 2024. His election to the Board will be proposed at the Annual General Meeting on September 11, 2024.

In his new role, Mr. Bos oversees all Maisons, functions, and regions, with a particular focus on the Jewellery Maisons, Finance, and Human Resources.

Mr. Bos, a graduate of ESSEC Business School, began his career at Richemont in 1992, initially working with the Fondation Cartier pour l’art contemporain in Paris. In 2000, he joined Van Cleef & Arpels, where he held various positions, ultimately becoming the global President and Chief Executive Officer in 2013. Since September 2019, he has also been overseeing Buccellati.

Achievements: Under Bos’ charge, Van Cleef & Arpels has continued to solidify its reputation as a premier jewelry and watchmaking maison through significant achievements. In terms of product innovation, Van Cleef & Arpels has introduced several notable collections, including the enchanting Poetic Complications series, which combines technical mastery with poetic storytelling through intricate mechanical movements and artistic dials.

Current challenge: Mr. Bos’ extensive experience and leadership within the luxury sector will position him as a key figure in Richemont’s strategic and operational management, reinforcing the company’s commitment to excellence in luxury goods.

Says Oliver R Müller: “Nicolas is a good manager and strategist, and is exceptionally comparable to Cyrille with his added pragmatic approach. What he needs to do is to push hard at some brands, but more importantly, keep the momentum going.”

Cyrille Vigneron, Chairman of Cartier Culture & Philanthropy
Previously CEO of Cartier

After eight triumphant years steering the helm of Cartier, Cyrille Vigneron will take on the role of Chairman of Cartier Culture & Philanthropy. This is a role perfectly suited for Mr Vigneron whose immense intellect and sensitivity to global culture meets a strong passion for making a positive impact on society, and a position much needed by the Maison to distinguish itself as more than just a jeweler watchmaker.

Vigneron was appointed to the Board of Cartier in 2016 and served as a member of the Senior Executive Committee from 2019 to 2022. On January 1, 2016, he succeeded Mr. Stanislas de Quercize as President and Chief Executive Officer.

Before taking on his role at Cartier, Mr. Vigneron had an extensive career with LVMH Japan, where he served as President. His association with Richemont spanned from 1988 to 2013. During this period, he held several key positions, primarily with Cartier. He rose through the ranks to become the Managing Director of Cartier Japan, then President of Richemont Japan, and ultimately, the Managing Director of Cartier Europe.

Achievements: Vigneron oversaw the revitalization of Cartier’s classic collections, such as the Panthère and Tank watches, reintroducing them with modern twists that have appealed to both long-time enthusiasts and new customers. In bolstering his current role as Chairman, his tenure at Cartier saw an increase in cultural collaborations and hosted high-profile exhibitions, showcasing the brand’s rich heritage and contemporary creativity.

Says Oliver R Müller: “Strengthening culture and philanthropy is important for a brand like Cartier. Cyrille has proven his strength in this, having perpetuated initiatives led by the maison. With his focus on this, it allows the CEO to work on other areas of the brand.”

Louis Ferla, CEO of Cartier
Previously CEO of Vacheron Constantin

Louis Ferla is poised to take the top role at Cartier effective 1 September, 2024.

Ferla, a seasoned executive with a notable career in luxury goods, joined Richemont in 2001. His journey began at Alfred Dunhill, where he served as Area Sales Manager in Hong Kong before becoming the general manager in Taipei. In 2006, Ferla transitioned to Cartier, taking on various senior executive roles across the Middle East, India, and Africa. His leadership and expertise eventually led to his appointment as CEO of Cartier China.

In 2015, Ferla’s contributions were further recognized when he was promoted to the executive committee of Cartier, assuming the role of International Director Clients & Business. This position allowed him to influence the global strategy and customer engagement initiatives of the prestigious jewelry Maison.

Achievements: Since 2017, Ferla has been at the helm of Vacheron Constantin as CEO. Under his leadership, the maison has expanded its repertoire with technically advanced timepieces while maintaining its commitment to traditional craftsmanship. Key achievements include the introduction of the Fiftysix collection in 2018, and the Overseas collection’s evolution with new complications and materials, catering to contemporary tastes.

In terms of technical prowess, Vacheron Constantin has excelled with movements such as the ultra-thin caliber 1731, known for its minute repeater complication. The maison has also enhanced its Métiers d’Art series, celebrating artistic crafts through exquisite enameling, guilloché work, and gem-setting techniques. Culturally, Vacheron Constantin has reinforced its commitment to heritage with initiatives like the Les Collectionneurs program, offering vintage timepieces restored to perfection. Additionally, collaborations with artists and designers have enriched the brand’s creative landscape.

Says Oliver R Müller: “There is no crisis for Louis to manage. He doesn’t need to reinvent the wheel. There is a potential for Cartier to tighten its accessories department, but it’s not a task to be done overnight — he has time.”

Catch up on Wei Koh’s conversation with Louis Ferla during the 2022 Metiers d’Art launch in Paris here.

Catherine Rénier, CEO of Van Cleef & Arpels
Previously CEO of Jaeger-LeCoultre

Also taking effect on 1 September, Catherine Rénier will take on the appointment of CEO at Van Cleef & Arpels.

Mrs. Rénier, a French national, brings over 20 years of expertise in jewelry and luxury watchmaking, primarily with Richemont. She joined the Group in 1999 as Cartier North America’s Retail Development Director in New York. In 2003, Mrs. Rénier moved to Paris to join Van Cleef & Arpels as Deputy Marketing Manager, significantly contributing to the Maison’s development. Her career then took her to Hong Kong in 2008, where she supported the Maison’s growth in the Asia Pacific region, initially as Commercial Director, then as Managing Director for Hong Kong & Macau SAR, China in 2011, and finally as President for Asia Pacific, a role she held for eight years.

Achievements: Since Mrs. Rénier took the helm as CEO in 2018, Jaeger-LeCoultre has continued to innovate with the introduction of several groundbreaking models, including the Master Ultra Thin Perpetual Enamel and the Polaris Mariner Memovox, as well as grand complications like the Reverso Quadriptyque.

Under Rénier’s leadership, Jaeger-LeCoultre expanded its focus on artistic collaborations and cultural partnerships. The brand’s ongoing partnership with the Venice International Film Festival has strengthened its association with the arts, celebrating creativity and excellence in filmmaking.

Says Oliver R Müller: “The long-term strategy applied by Nicolas Bos for the brand was very clear, so she just needs to pursue what he initiated. There are no immediate issues she has to address. In fact, the brand is doing well.”

Nicolas Luchsinger, CEO of Buccellati
Previously President Asia Pacific of Van Cleef & Arpels

Nicolas Luchsinger, formerly President Asia Pacific at Van Cleef & Arpels, has assumed the role of CEO of Maison Buccellati since 2 April, 2024.

He brings with him 17 years of experience at the French jeweler, having held various managerial roles, including Retail Director and Heritage Director. Prior to his tenure at Van Cleef & Arpels, Luchsinger worked for nearly a decade at Christie’s.

His predecessor, Gianluca Brozzetti, now leads Buccellati as Executive Vice President. In his tenure, Brozzetti notably steered its integration into Richemont in 2019 and expanded the Maison’s global presence in jewelry and silverware.

Laurent Perves, interim CEO of Vacheron Constantin
Currently Chief Commercial Officer

Chief Commercial Officer Laurent Perves will assume the role of interim CEO for Vacheron Constantin when Louis Ferla moves over to Cartier in September.

Perves has been with the Maison since December 2016, initially serving as Chief Marketing Officer. As a key member of the Executive Committee, he also oversees global commercial operations.

With over 15 years of experience in managing global brands, Perves has extensive expertise in the beauty and luxury goods sectors, having held various roles in LVMH, Procter & Gamble, and Gucci Parfums. In 2014, Perves transitioned to the watchmaking industry as Head of Brand Communication for Audemars Piguet, where he specialized in digital and trade marketing and revolutionized the brand’s communication strategies.

In addition to his corporate roles, Perves is a Visiting Professor at Paris Dauphine University, where he conducts seminars for the “Luxury Management” Masters program. He holds a Master in Economics & Marketing from ESSCA, a Master in Processes Engineering & Project Management from Angers University, and a Master in Political Sciences & Organization from Paris Dauphine University.

Emmanuel Perrin, interim CEO of Roger Dubuis
Currently Head of Specialist Watchmaking Division at Richemont Group

Emmanuel Perrin, who currently serves as Richemont’s head of Specialist Watchmakers, has been temporarily holding the fort at Roger Dubuis. Revolution understands that a new CEO has been identified and will be officially announced in the near future.

Philippe Hermann, interim CEO of Jaeger-LeCoultre
Currently Chief Financial Officer

Philippe Hermann, Chief Financial Officer, will assume the role of ad interim CEO for Jaeger-LeCoultre until a new CEO is announced.

LVMH Group

Frédéric Arnault, CEO of LVMH Watches
Previously CEO of TAG Heuer

Frédéric Arnault, who joined TAG Heuer in 2017 and became its CEO in 2020, is currently the CEO of LVMH Watches, overseeing Hublot, TAG Heuer, and Zenith. In his expanded role, Arnault aims to further solidify LVMH’s leading position within the watchmaking industry.

Achievements: Over the past six years, Arnault has successfully driven the transformation and acceleration of TAG Heuer, positioning it for robust growth. The brand has undergone a transformation, focusing on innovation, digitalization, and strengthening its core product lines.

TAG Heuer has also revitalized its classic collections. The Carrera and Monaco lines saw new models introduced, celebrating their rich heritage while incorporating contemporary design elements. The brand has also expanded its global presence through strategic partnerships and high-profile collaborations, including alliances with Porsche and various motorsport events, strengthening the brand’s association with speed and performance.

Ricardo Guadalupe, Honorary President of Hublot
Previously CEO of Hublot

After two decades with Hublot, Ricardo Guadalupe has announced his decision to step down from his role as CEO and transition to the position of Honorary Chairman.

Guadalupe began his career as a Product Manager at Bvlgari Horlogerie and joined Blancpain in 1994 with Jean-Claude Biver. From 1997 to 2001, he served as Sales and Marketing Director before becoming a consultant for independent watch brands. In 2004, Ricardo rejoined Biver at Hublot, where the 2005 launch of the Big Bang led to spectacular growth. With Hublot’s acquisition by LVMH in 2008, Guadalupe was appointed CEO in 2012. He was educated at a Swiss Business School and the University of Los Angeles (UCLA).

Achievements: Guadalupe has steered Hublot through remarkable growth. The manufacture, which ranks 12th in the 2023 Top 50 Swiss watch companies by Morgan Stanley, garnered CHF 670m in revenue in the past year.

Hublot has continued its tradition of innovation, which includes advancements in materials like Magic Gold and the development of in-house movements such as the UNICO chronograph. High-profile partnerships have also proved successful for the brand, notably with sports, such as being the Official Timekeeper for the largest football events in the world, and collaborating with acclaimed artists such as Takashi Murakami and Daniel Arsham.

Julian Tornare, CEO of Hublot
Previously CEO of TAG Heuer

Julien Tornare, who has been at the helm of Zenith since 2017, and was appointed CEO of TAG Heuer in 2023, now moves over to Hublot.

Tornare boasts a distinguished 26-year career in watchmaking, starting at Raymond Weil and spending significant years at Vacheron Constantin under Richemont. His roles ranged from Director for the Swiss Market to Managing Director for Asia-Pacific. His educational background includes degrees from IMD and the London Metropolitan University.

Achievements: At Zenith, Tornare’s tenure was marked by a renewed focus on innovation, heritage, and craftsmanship. Under his leadership, Zenith launched several acclaimed models and initiatives, one such being the Defy collection. The Defy El Primero 21, capable of measuring 1/100th of a second, reminds watch fans of Zenith’s technical prowess.

In 2021, Zenith introduced the Chronomaster Sport, which received widespread acclaim for its precision and design, reaffirming the brand’s commitment to the iconic El Primero movement. Zenith’s dedication to its heritage was further underscored by the re-release of vintage models like the A384 and the A386.

Albeit a short stint at TAG Heuer, Tornare oversaw the elevation of the TAG Heuer Monaco that housed a split-seconds chronograph, a complication developed in partnership with Vaucher. He also maintained the ongoing partnership with Red Bull Racing, strengthening TAG Heuer’s racing heritage. We did hope to see more from the veteran manager, so his quick reshuffle to Hublot was nonetheless a surprise to many. Although, it does fill the gap with Ricardo’s move up to Chairman, and we can only guess that with Hublot’s aforementioned success, Tornare is swiftly moved in to be the top man for the job.

Says Oliver R Müller: “It’s undeniably concerning that Julien has had to change hands again as it prompts questions about the long-term strategy at the LVMH Watches Division. Julien is a good manager and he did a really good job at Zenith. So what can he do at Hublot? Ricardo recently introduced new products at a more accessible price level that reached out to younger consumers was a good initiative. Though I’m hearing that they’re going through a turbulent period where they’re down 30% to 40% this year so that may be challenging for Julien.”

Antoine Pin, CEO of TAG Heuer
Previously General Manager of Bvlgari Horlogerie

Antoine Pin has been appointed as the new CEO of TAG Heuer, succeeding Julien Tornare.

Pin brings extensive experience in the luxury watch industry, having started his career with TAG Heuer in 1994. He has held various roles within LVMH, including positions at Zénith and Bulgari, where he most recently served as General Manager of Bvlgari Horlogerie since 2019.

Says Oliver R Müller: “TAG Heuer may have to refocus on their Carrera line. The Monaco is an amazing watch but it only makes up 5% of their overall sales. Antoine will be facing a huge challenge as he’ll be facing strong and aggressive competitors like Breitling. There’s a potential to reinforce where TAG Heuer should be, and that is to secure its position as a high-volume watch brand with mid-range prices.”

Benoit de Clerck, CEO of Zenith
Previously Chief Commercial Officer of Panerai

In tandem with the shuffle of appointments in the LVMH Watches Division earlier this year, Benoit de Clerck currently leads Zenith as CEO.

He brings with him 25 years of experience in the watchmaking industry, all within the Richemont Group. His roles involved leading global sales in the luxury goods market across four continents. His educational background includes a degree from Concordia University in Montreal.

Laura Burdese, Deputy CEO of Bulgari
Previously Vice President of Marketing and Communication of Bulgari

With her name thrown into the ring, it’s a strong premonition that Laura Burdese is slated to advance within LVMH, particularly at Bvlgari. Her promotion to Deputy CEO will be effective September 1, 2024. This position was newly created to leverage her success in driving the company’s One Brand Elevation strategy, which enhanced brand desirability through a comprehensive 360° brand experience.

In her new role, she will support CEO Jean-Christophe Babin, overseeing the jewelry, watches, fragrances, and leather goods business units while maintaining her marketing and communications responsibilities. 

With over twenty years of experience in the beauty, watch, jewelry, and luxury sectors, Burdese’s career began at Beiersdorf and L’Oréal. She joined the Swatch Group in 1999, where she ultimately became CEO of Calvin Klein Watches & Jewelry Co. Ltd. In 2016, she transitioned to LVMH as CEO of Acqua di Parma, before moving to Bvlgari in 2022 as Vice President of Marketing and Communications.

Stéphane Bianchi, Group Managing Director and Chairman of the Executive Committee of the LVMH Group
Previously CEO of LVMH Watches & Jewelry Division

Earlier in March, Stéphane Bianchi assumed the operational responsibilities previously held by Toni Belloni. Bianchi now leads LVMH’s Executive Committee, working closely with Bernard Arnault to oversee strategic and operational management across the luxury conglomerate’s Maisons. His role extends to supervising regional Presidents and spearheading LVMH’s digital and data transformation initiatives.

Bianchi, a graduate of Institut d’Etudes Politiques de Paris, began his career as a consultant at Arthur Andersen. His leadership journey accelerated at Yves Rocher Group, where he became CEO at just 33, overseeing brands like Yves Rocher and Petit Bateau.

He joined LVMH in 2018 as CEO of TAG Heuer and swiftly ascended to lead the Watches and Jewelry Division in 2020, expanding his purview to include prestigious brands like Bulgari, Hublot, and Tiffany & Co. His strategic acumen has solidified his role on the LVMH Executive Committee, steering the division towards continued growth and innovation in luxury timepieces and jewelry.

Pietro Beccari, CEO of Louis Vuitton since 2023
Previously CEO of Christian Dior

In January 2023, Pietro Beccari succeeded Michael Burke as CEO of Louis Vuitton. Beccari previously served as CEO of Christian Dior and Fendi, where he successfully revitalized the brands, enhancing their market presence and resonating with younger consumers. 

Before Dior, Beccari served as executive vice president of marketing and communications at Louis Vuitton, earning acclaim for campaigns like “Journeys,” which featured international celebrities such as Diego Maradona, Angelina Jolie, and Buzz Aldrin.

At Fendi, Beccari implemented initiatives to integrate the brand with Italian culture, notably launching the “Fendi for Fountains” project in 2013, contributing over €2.2 million for Rome’s fountain restorations. He also oversaw Fendi’s move to the Palazzo della Civiltà Italiana, a significant cultural landmark, in 2015.

Beccari’s career includes roles at Reckitt Benckiser, Parmalat, and Henkel, where he was Corporate Vice President of haircare. 

Achievements: Under his leadership since 2018, Dior’s sales have nearly quadrupled to approximately €9 billion in 2022, as estimated by HSBC. 

Delphine Arnault, CEO of Christian Dior since 2023
Previously Executive Vice President of Louis Vuitton

Delphine Arnault was appointed Chief Executive and President of Christian Dior in January 2023, succeeding Pietro Beccari.

Before this, she was the Executive Vice President of Louis Vuitton and Deputy Managing Director of Christian Dior. During her decade-long tenure at Dior, Ms. Arnault oversaw the leather goods and accessories businesses and facilitated the appointment of Raf Simons as creative director following John Galliano’s departure.

Ms. Arnault’s career at Dior began in 2001 as Commercial Director, after a brief stint in business development at the John Galliano brand. She was promoted to Deputy Managing Director in 2008, becoming second-in-command to CEO Sidney Toledano. Her earlier career included a position at McKinsey & Co. in Paris, and she holds degrees from EDHEC Business School in Lille and the London School of Economics.

In addition to her roles at Dior and Vuitton, Ms. Arnault joined LVMH’s board in 2003 and serves on the boards of Christian Dior S.A., Pucci, Loewe, and Céline. Her appointment as Chief Executive at Dior marks the most significant role held by a member of Bernard Arnault’s next generation, as all five of his children occupy key positions within LVMH.

Anthony Ledru, President and CEO of Tiffany & Co. since 2021
Previously Executive Vice President of Global Commercial Activities of Louis Vuitton

Anthony Ledru was appointed President and Chief Executive Officer of Tiffany & Co. in January 2021.

His extensive career began with Cartier, where he worked from 1999 to 2011, initially in Latin America and later as Vice President of Retail in North America. Ledru then served as Global Vice President of Sales for Harry Winston International before joining Tiffany & Co. as Senior Vice President of North America from 2013 to 2014. 

In 2015, Ledru moved to Louis Vuitton, taking on the role of President and Chief Executive Officer of Louis Vuitton Americas. By 2017, he advanced to Executive Vice President of global commercial activities at Louis Vuitton, a position he held until his return to Tiffany & Co. He holds a master’s degree from SKEMA Business School. 

Other Groups and Companies

Ilaria Resta, CEO of Audemars Piguet since 2023
Previously President, Global Perfumery of Firmenich SA

Ilaria Resta was announced as CEO of Audemars Piguet last May 2023. Her addition was interesting news to the greater watch industry, considering she’s a veteran in the perfumery and beauty industry, albeit bringing over 26 years of experience leading and developing iconic global brands across a range of different segments.

Ms. Resta was appointed the President of Global Perfumery in March 2020. Throughout her career, she has played a pivotal role in developing iconic brands at Procter & Gamble across diverse markets including Europe, the Middle East, China, and North America. Her accomplishments earned her the title of 2020 Brand Builder of the Year in the US by WWD.

Ms. Resta holds a Bachelor’s degree in Marketing and Economics and a Master’s in Financial Mathematics from Napoli University. Fluent in Italian, English, French, and Spanish, she is an Italian and Swiss citizen. 

Achievements: ​​Under Ms. Resta’s guidance, the brand has looked at going mid-size (from 33mm to 37mm) in collections spanning the Royal Oak, Royal Oak Offshore and Code 11.59 by Audemars Piguet, which has appealed to existing fans of the “teeny tiny” watch trend, as well as to new converts à la the famous male clientele with their dainty time-only pieces. She has also commended Audemars Piguet’s dedication to innovation and technical excellence, as well as continuing the creative momentum especially with John Mayer as the brand’s Creative Conduit.  

And with Ms. Resta leading the charge, Audemars Piguet is relying strongly on women’s leadership, with Olivia Crouan, Chief Brand Officer, and Head of Media and Influence, Aurelia Jouhanneau, who together form a mighty all-female think tank, as Revolution founder Wei Koh so eloquently describes.

Leena Nair, CEO of Chanel since 2022
Previously Chief Human Resources Officer of Unilever Group

Leena Nair, the Global Chief Executive of Chanel since January 2022, is the only woman of color leading a major luxury brand. Ms. Nair, a British-Indian executive, spent decades at Unilever, where she excelled in leading human resources and company culture. 

Ms. Nair joined Chanel during a pivotal period following the death of Karl Lagerfeld in 2019. Her role involves continuing Chanel’s long-standing success while modernizing its structures and storytelling. 

Jean-François Palus, President and CEO of Gucci since 2023
Previously Chairman of PUMA SE

Jean-François Palus was appointed President and CEO of Gucci in 2023 and is tasked with strengthening the brand’s teams and operations, rebuilding its influence and momentum, and preparing its leadership and organization for the future. 

He began his career with Arthur Andersen as an Auditor and Financial Adviser before joining the Pinault group (now Kering) in 1991 as Deputy Chief Financial Officer for the timber division. Two years later, he was promoted to CFO and later held management positions at Fnac and Conforama.

Palus played a key role in overseeing Kering’s mergers and acquisitions and became Group CFO in 2005. By 2008, he was promoted to Group Managing Director, where he contributed significantly to the development and implementation of Kering’s strategy, ensuring the group’s operational efficiency. Between 2012 and 2018, Palus also led Kering’s Sport & Lifestyle activities and served on the PUMA SE Supervisory Board, where he was Chairman until May 2022. He was also a Kering board member from 2009 to 2023.

Michel Nydegger, CEO of Greubel Forsey
Previously Head of Marketing & Communication of Greubel Forsey

Michel Nydegger was announced as CEO of Greubel Forsey in April 2024. Nydegger, formerly the brand’s Head of Marketing & Communication, has been a fixture at Greubel Forsey for over 8 years. 

Vahé Vartzbed, CEO of HYT Watches
Previously General Manager of HYT Watches

Vahé Vartzbed took the lead at HYT Watches on July 1, 2024. Prior to his new appointment, Vartzbed joined HYT in August 2023 as General Manager.

Vartzbed’s career began in 2009 after earning a Master’s in Management from the Geneva School of Economics and Management. He gained substantial experience in the watchmaking industry, starting with Roger Dubuis in Dubai and later overseeing sales across America, Europe, and the Middle East from Switzerland. His roles at Girard-Perregaux and Greubel Forsey further honed his expertise in sales and commercial development. 

James Marks, CEO of Biver Watches
Currently Deputy Chairman, Watches, International Head of Perpetual, Phillips Watches

Earlier this week, it was announced that auction house veteran James Marks is the newly minted Chief Executive Officer at Biver. Marks, who has served as Deputy Chairman of Watches and International Head of Phillips Perpetual at Phillips Auction House for the past six years, will retain his position at Phillips. His extensive role in the luxury watch industry and his experience are expected to complement the father-and-son founders of Biver, bringing a fresh perspective to the brand.

At Phillips, Marks has led innovations in both brick-and-mortar and e-commerce ventures for the watch department, setting several world-record final hammer prices along the way. Marks’ appointment is anticipated to enhance Biver’s operations, blending his expertise in auctions and market strategy with the brand’s storied heritage and innovative spirit.