In a strategic leadership reshuffle, Kering has announced that Cedric Charbit will step in as CEO of Saint Laurent and Gianfranco Gianangeli will take the helm at Balenciaga, effective from the 2nd of January.
Cedric Charbit (left), and Gianfranco Gianangeli (right)
Charbit will take over from Francesca Bellettini, who has overseen Saint Laurent’s transformation over recent years and is now set to concentrate on enhancing the brand development of Kering’s entire fashion, leather goods, and jewellery divisions in her role as Kering’s Deputy CEO. Bellettini will focus on driving cohesive strategies across Kering’s iconic brands, from Gucci and Bottega Veneta to Balenciaga and Saint Laurent, reflecting the conglomerate’s emphasis on brand synergy and growth through strategic leadership.
Charbit, a seasoned luxury fashion executive, joined Kering in 2012 as Saint Laurent’s product strategy director and swiftly rose through the ranks to become Balenciaga’s CEO in 2016. His tenure at Balenciaga saw remarkable brand rejuvenation, with growth underpinned by bold creative direction and a strong digital presence, making it one of the most dynamic brands in Kering’s portfolio. Charbit’s earlier roles at Emilio Pucci and Printemps also underscore his versatility and deep understanding of the luxury market, equipping him to lead Saint Laurent into its next phase of expansion and innovation.
Meanwhile, Gianangeli brings a wealth of experience in luxury retail management and brand strategy to his new position at Balenciaga. Currently Saint Laurent’s Chief Commercial Officer, Gianangeli has previously held senior leadership roles as CEO of Maison Margiela, Global Retail Director at Givenchy, and Associate Commercial COO at Prada, making him well-prepared to oversee Balenciaga’s growth trajectory. With Balenciaga’s evolving design ethos and focus on sustainability, Gianangeli is expected to enhance its commercial success while maintaining its edgy, forward-looking identity.
Bellettini, who has collaborated closely with both Charbit and Gianangeli, expressed her confidence in the appointments, saying, “I am certain they will excel in their new roles, guiding their respective houses toward even greater success.”
