LVMH has appointed Laura Burdese as the new CEO of Bvlgari. Burdese first joined LVMH in 2016 as CEO of Acqua di Parma, then moved to Bvlgari in 2022 as chief marketing officer before being promoted to deputy CEO in July 2024. Effective July 1, she will report to Stéphane Bianchi, LVMH’s managing director and CEO of LVMH Watches & Jewelry.
Burdese succeeds Jean-Christophe Babin, who will remain chair of the Bvlgari board, CEO of the Bvlgari Hotel business, president of the Bvlgari Foundation, and CEO of LVMH Watches, which includes Tag Heuer, Hublot and Zenith.
Babin has led Bvlgari since 2013, having previously served as CEO of Tag Heuer from 2000 to 2012. Under his leadership, Bvlgari grew into a megabrand with revenues reaching an estimated €3.27 billion in 2024, according to HSBC. Before its acquisition by LVMH in 2011, the brand’s sales were under €1 billion in 2010, but have expanded rapidly over the past five years, reaching an estimated €2 billion in 2020 according to Morgan Stanley.
Key achievements during Babin’s tenure include expanding Bvlgari’s high jewelry, watchmaking, and hotel divisions. LVMH also highlighted his dedication to Italian craftsmanship, exemplified by the opening of a large jewelry production site in Valenza and the establishment of Scuola Bvlgari, a jewelry training school.
In a statement, Stéphane Bianchi said, “For the past three years, Laura and Jean-Christophe have worked side by side to sustain and orchestrate the brand elevation of the iconic Roman jewelry maison. The appointment of Laura, while opening a new chapter for Bvlgari, is a tribute to her strong contribution and accomplishments. Jean-Christophe has shaped the success of Tag Heuer and Bvlgari while creating unique paths within their respective industries. I am confident that he will bring the same energy and continue to support LVMH and its maisons with his extraordinary vision.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Of course Here is a list of FAQs about Laura Burdeses appointment as the new CEO of Bvlgari designed to cover a range of perspectives
General Background Questions
1 Who is Laura Burdese
Laura Burdese is a seasoned luxury industry executive who has spent over 15 years at LVMH Most recently she served as the President and CEO of LVMH Fragrance Brands She is known for her strong commercial and strategic expertise
2 What is Bvlgari
Bvlgari is an iconic Italian luxury brand founded in 1884 famous for its highend jewelry watches accessories perfumes and hotels It has been part of the LVMH group since 2011
3 Who was the CEO of Bvlgari before her
The previous CEO was JeanChristophe Babin who led the brand for nearly a decade He is credited with significantly expanding Bvlgaris global footprint and product lines before moving to lead another LVMH brand Tiffany Co
4 Why is this news important
This is a major leadership change at the helm of one of the worlds most prestigious jewelry houses It signals LVMHs strategic priorities for Bvlgari and reflects the groups practice of rotating top talent between its brands to foster innovation
Strategic Industry Questions
5 Why was Laura Burdese chosen for this role
LVMH likely chose her for her proven track record in driving growth and profitability within the group her deep understanding of the luxury consumer and her experience in managing prestigious brand portfolios Her background in fragrance also suggests a focus on amplifying Bvlgaris nonjewelry categories
6 What does this mean for Bvlgaris future direction
While specific strategies will unfold her appointment suggests a continued focus on global expansion digital transformation and potentially strengthening Bvlgaris presence in highmargin categories like perfumes leather goods and hotels alongside its core jewelry business
7 Is it unusual for a fragrance executive to lead a jewelry house
Within LVMH its not unusual The group highly values versatile leaders who understand the overarching principles