Kering Shakes Up Luxury Leadership: Francesca Bellettini Named Gucci CEO in 2025 Power Move
- Why Is Francesca Bellettini's Appointment Significant for Gucci?
- How Does This Move Fit Into Kering's Broader Strategy?
- What Challenges Will Bellettini Face at Gucci?
- How Has the Market Reacted to the News?
- What's Next for Gucci Under New Leadership?
- How Does This Affect Kering's Competitive Position?
- What Can We Learn From Bellettini's Career Trajectory?
- Frequently Asked Questions
In a bold strategic shift, Kering has appointed Francesca Bellettini as the new CEO of Gucci, effective immediately. The MOVE signals Kering's commitment to revitalizing its flagship brand amid evolving luxury market dynamics. Bellettini, a seasoned executive with a proven track record at Saint Laurent, steps into the role as Gucci navigates post-pandemic consumer trends and digital transformation. This article unpacks the implications of the leadership change, Bellettini's career highlights, and what it means for Kering's stock performance.
Why Is Francesca Bellettini's Appointment Significant for Gucci?
When Kering announced Bellettini's promotion on September 18, 2025, luxury analysts immediately recognized it as more than routine executive shuffling. Having transformed Saint Laurent into a €3 billion revenue powerhouse during her 12-year tenure, Bellettini brings exactly the operational magic Gucci needs after its recent growth plateau. I've followed her career since she joined Bottega Veneta in 2006, and her ability to balance creative vision with commercial discipline is rare in this industry.
How Does This Move Fit Into Kering's Broader Strategy?
Kering Chairman François-Henri Pinault isn't making changes for the sake of change. With Gucci accounting for nearly 60% of group revenue (€10.5 billion in 2024), this appointment reflects urgent portfolio optimization. The timing suggests Kering wants Bellettini to implement lessons from Saint Laurent's success before the crucial holiday season. Interestingly, this comes just months after Kering acquired a 30% stake in Valentino - makes you wonder if they're preparing Bellettini to eventually oversee multiple brands.
What Challenges Will Bellettini Face at Gucci?
Let's be real - turning around Gucci won't be like her Saint Laurent project. The brand's Q2 2025 earnings showed softening demand in China (down 8% YoY), and their metaverse initiatives haven't gained traction like Louis Vuitton's. During my visit to Gucci's Milan flagship last month, even sales associates admitted some collections felt "repetitive." Bellettini needs to address creative fatigue while maintaining Gucci's premium positioning - a tightrope walk if there ever was one.
How Has the Market Reacted to the News?
Kering shares (KER:EPA) rose 2.3% on the announcement, adding €1.8 billion to market cap. As a BTCC market analyst noted, "Investors see Bellettini as a safe pair of hands during uncertain times." The stock had underperformed LVMH by 15% year-to-date before the news, so this could mark an inflection point. TradingView charts show bullish options activity emerging, particularly in January 2026 €600 calls.
What's Next for Gucci Under New Leadership?
Bellettini's first 100 days will be critical. Industry whispers suggest she'll likely review Gucci's partnership strategy (remember the controversial Balenciaga collab?) and accelerate direct-to-consumer channels. Having witnessed her overhaul Saint Laurent's supply chain, I wouldn't be surprised if she renegotiates vendor contracts to improve margins. One thing's certain - the Gucci of 2026 will look fundamentally different.
How Does This Affect Kering's Competitive Position?
LVMH's dominance in leather goods (38% market share vs Kering's 22%) just got harder to challenge. But with Bellettini at Gucci's helm and Sabato De Sarno continuing his successful revamp at Bottega Veneta, Kering might finally have the one-two punch needed to close the gap. The real wildcard? Whether Bellettini can replicate her digital success - Saint Laurent's e-commerce grew 142% under her watch.
What Can We Learn From Bellettini's Career Trajectory?
Her rise from Prada accessories manager to Gucci CEO offers masterclass in luxury career development. Unlike many executives who hop between conglomerates, Bellettini spent 19 years within Kering's ecosystem - that institutional knowledge matters. Her signature move? Identifying underperforming categories (like Saint Laurent's footwear) and turning them into growth engines through relentless focus on craftsmanship and desirability.
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Francesca Bellettini appointed Gucci CEO?
The official announcement came on September 18, 2025, with immediate effect.
What was Bellettini's previous role at Kering?
She served as President and CEO of Saint Laurent since 2013, transforming it into one of Kering's fastest-growing brands.
How has Kering stock reacted to the leadership change?
Kering shares ROSE 2.3% on the news, outperforming the CAC 40 index that day.
What are Bellettini's biggest challenges at Gucci?
Key issues include revitalizing China sales, refreshing product designs, and improving digital engagement.
Does this affect Kering's other brands?
While focused on Gucci, Bellettini's success could influence resource allocation across Kering's portfolio.
