Kering appoints Francesca Bellettini as Gucci CEO

Luxury group Kering has named Francesca Bellettini as president and chief executive of Gucci, reporting to Kering chief executive Luca de Meo.

It also announced that Jean-Marc Duplaix will continue as Kering group chief operating officer, supporting de Meo in group development and organisational management. As part of the changes, the position of Kering deputy chief executive will be scrapped.

Bellettini joined Kering in 2003, holding senior planning and merchandising roles at Gucci and Bottega Veneta before becoming president and chief executive of Saint Laurent in 2013. She was appointed Kering deputy chief executive in charge of brand development in September 2023. Earlier in her career she worked at Prada and Helmut Lang, after starting out as an investment banker in London.

De Meo said the appointment came at “a pivotal moment” as the company seeks a “leaner and clearer organisation” and sharper focus on its flagship brand.

He added: “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.”

Bellettini said: “I am truly honored to take on direct responsibility for Gucci, one of the world’s most iconic luxury Houses. I look forward to working under the leadership of Luca de Meo, whose innovative and fresh perspective inspires us to push boundaries. I’m excited to embark on this new challenge together with the whole Gucci team and alongside Demna, whose creativity I have always admired.”

Kering, which owns Gucci, Saint Laurent, Bottega Veneta, Balenciaga, Alexander McQueen and other luxury houses, employs 47,000 people worldwide. In 2024 it generated revenue of €17.2bn (£14.9bn).