Kering has named Luca de Meo as its new chief executive officer, marking the first separation of chairman and CEO roles in the company’s recent history. The move reflects a deliberate evolution in governance, positioning the luxury group for its next phase of growth.
François-Henri Pinault, who has led Kering’s transformation into a global luxury powerhouse over the past two decades, will continue as chairman of the board. The changes took effect following a shareholder meeting, with de Meo officially assuming his role on this month. Shareholders will be asked to approve his appointment as a director and the corresponding compensation policy for the new structure.
A New Chapter at Kering
Pinault initiated this governance evolution in 2023, conducting a comprehensive review of the group’s leadership needs. His assessment identified de Meo as the leader best positioned to guide Kering through its next chapter of growth.
‘His experience at the helm of an international listed group, his sharp understanding of brands, and his sense of a strong and respectful corporate culture convinced me that he is the leader I was looking for to bring a new vision and steer this chapter in our Group’s history. It is with complete confidence that I am handing over the leadership of Kering and our teams to Luca. I will of course be at his side to accompany him in this new phase, as Chairman of the Board of Kering.’
François-Henri Pinault, Chairman of the Board, Kering
Building on this confidence, de Meo brings three decades of international leadership experience in the automotive industry, including senior roles at Renault, Toyota Europe, Fiat Group, Volkswagen Group, and AUDI AG. His career has consistently focused on brand differentiation, market positioning, and global growth.
Steering a House of Brands
From 2015 to 2020, he served as president of SEAT and CUPRA while holding board positions with Ducati and Lamborghini, giving him hands-on exposure to high-end branding. As CEO of Renault Group from 2020, he led flagship brand initiatives and served on the management board, reinforcing his strategic and operational credentials.
Beyond corporate leadership, de Meo served as president of the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (2023–2024), coordinating across competing organisations. Kering currently manages a portfolio including Gucci, Saint Laurent, Bottega Veneta, Balenciaga, Alexander McQueen, Brioni, Boucheron, Pomellato, Dodo, Qeelin, and Ginori 1735, alongside Kering Eyewear and Kering Beauté. The group employs 47,000 people and reported revenue of €17.2 billion in 2024.
Looking Ahead
“I would like to thank François-Henri Pinault and the Board of Directors for choosing me to lead Kering into this new phase of development. I am approaching this new professional challenge with enthusiasm, eagerness, and confidence, inspired by the strength of the Group’s brands and the expertise of its people. I am convinced that together we will continue to make Kering an essential player in the luxury industry.”
Luca de Meo, CEO, Kering