Kering appoints Luca de Meo as CEO

FRANCE – Kering, a French multinational holding company specializing in luxury goods, has nominated Luca de Meo as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective September 15, 2025.

This decision follows approval by Kering’s Board of Directors and was initiated by Chairman François-Henri Pinault.

Pinault, who has led Kering for two decades, will remain Chairman of the Board, ensuring continuity while supporting the transition.

According to Kering, this appointment introduces a new leadership model that separates the roles of CEO and Chairman, aligning with best practices for publicly listed companies.

Pinault stated, “After twenty years of transforming Kering into a major global luxury player, the Group is ready for a new stage in its development.”

“Luca’s 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.”

De Meo, currently serving as CEO of Renault Group, brings over 30 years of experience in international business leadership, having held executive positions at Fiat, Volkswagen Group, and Audi.

His tenure at Renault was characterized by strategic transformations, including a focus on electric vehicles and premium models, which helped the company navigate industry challenges.

Recently, Kering issued a €750 million (USD 850.5 million) bond as part of its strategy to strengthen its presence in the luxury beauty and personal care sector. 

This strategic plan aligns with the company’s active liquidity management, ensuring financial flexibility to support its growing beauty division, Kering Beauté.

The bond carries a 3.125% interest rate and has a 4.5-year maturity, reflecting strong investor confidence in Kering’s financial status. 

The bond issuance is expected to fund various initiatives within Kering Beauté, which oversees the development and management of beauty lines for the group’s fashion brands, including Bottega Veneta, Balenciaga, and the recently acquired high-end fragrance house, Creed. 

However, Kering has not disclosed specific spending plans, and the proceeds could be directed toward product development, marketing efforts, and potential acquisitions.

The company holds a BBB+ credit rating from Standard & Poor’s, indicating a relatively low risk of investment.

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