Vhernier/Richemont
On September 13, the Swiss luxury group Richemont completed its acquisition of the Italian contemporary fine jewelry brand Vhernier and immediately adjusted the company’s leadership structure. Gianluca Brozzetti, Executive Vice President of Richemont’s jewelry brand Buccellati, will join Vhernier’s board as Executive Vice President and interim CEO until a permanent CEO is appointed.
Back in May, Richemont announced that it had reached an agreement to acquire 100% of the shares in Vhernier.
Additionally, Richemont stated that the Traglio family, who acquired Vhernier in 2001, will continue to be involved in the brand’s operations and contribute to its future growth. Former CEO Maurizio Traglio has been appointed Chairman of Vhernier SpA’s board, while former Chairman Carlo Traglio will serve as Chairman of Vhernier USA LLC. Isabella Traglio will remain as the brand’s Director of Design and R&D, leading Vhernier’s creative direction.
Gianluca Brozzetti
Richemont’s new CEO Nicolas Bos praised the Traglio family for their outstanding achievements in developing Vhernier into a highly distinctive jewelry brand. He expressed eagerness to collaborate with Maurizio, Carlo, and Isabella to ensure the brand’s continued success in the coming years.
Gianluca Brozzetti added, “Vhernier has long been admired for its unique, modern, and original designs. In the coming years, our focus will be on solidifying its success and expanding its boutique network while maximizing the brand’s exceptional Italian craftsmanship.”
Vhernier was co-founded by Angela Camurati in 1984 in Valenza, Italy, a renowned jewelry-making hub. Headquartered in Milan, Vhernier’s pieces are handcrafted in Valenza, combining traditional precious metals, bold colored gemstones, and pavé diamonds with unconventional materials like titanium, bronze, and ebony. The brand’s jewelry is sold through 17 flagship boutiques in major cities such as Milan, Rome, Geneva, Paris, New York, Miami, Beverly Hills, and Dubai, as well as through a global network of multi-brand retailers.
Christopher Ward
Recently, British luxury watch brand Christopher Ward announced the appointment of Sarah Baumann as its new Chief Operating Officer, effective September 23.
Sarah Baumann brings extensive experience from the advertising and marketing sectors, having most recently served as Managing Director of social media and influencer agency The Wild by Jungle for one year (until March this year). Prior to that, she spent over three years as Managing Director at London-based media agency VaynerMedia and worked as Marketing Director for People’s Vote UK, a campaign for a second referendum on the final Brexit deal. She also spent nearly 17 years at the creative agency Leo Burnett, where she rose to the position of Deputy CEO.
Commenting on her new role, Sarah Baumann said, “This is a tremendous opportunity, and I’m excited to join Mike, Peter, and their talented team to lead Christopher Ward into its next phase of expansion.”
Christopher Ward was founded in 2004 by Christopher Ward, Mike France, and Peter Ellis. According to the company’s report, Christopher Ward’s revenue nearly doubled in the year ending March 31, rising from £16.8 million to £30.5 million. Pre-tax profits also soared from £220,000 to £3.9 million.
Borbonese
Italian luxury handbag and accessories brand Borbonese recently announced the appointment of Stefano Ferro as its new CEO, succeeding Alessandro Pescara. The appointment took effect in September.
Stefano Ferro has extensive experience leading luxury companies and brands such as Gft, Bally, Genny, Corneliani, and B&B Italia. His current challenge is to further develop the brand and organization on an international level.
Earlier in May, Salar Bicheranloo and Francesca Monaco were appointed as Borbonese’s new Creative Directors. Their first collection for the brand will be presented during Milan Fashion Week (Milano Moda Donna). The duo brings over 20 years of experience in fashion and design, with a strong focus on sustainability.
As of 2023, Borbonese reported revenues of approximately €34 million, with a profit margin of around 64%.
Stefano Pilati Studio/Random Identities
Italian designer Stefano Pilati recently announced that retail industry veteran Mario Grauso has joined Stefano Pilati Studio as partner and CEO.
Stefano Pilati previously served as Creative Director of Yves Saint Laurent from 2004 to 2012 and led Zegna for three years, launching its womenswear line Agnona. Earlier in his career, he worked for Miu Miu, Prada, and Giorgio Armani.
The primary asset of Stefano Pilati Studio is the Random Identities brand, a gender-fluid menswear line launched in 2018 in Berlin, inspired by the city’s club culture. Key pieces include high-heeled boots, bomber jackets, trench coats, and sweaters with vibrant patterns. After a two-year hiatus due to the pandemic, the Random Identities brand relaunched at Dover Street Market in Paris in Spring 2023.
Mario Grauso
With Mario Grauso’s support, Random Identities is set to accelerate its development, expanding into new commercial channels and product categories. The brand may also venture into beauty and accessories in the future. Additionally, Stefano Pilati Studio will collaborate with fast-fashion brand Zara on a capsule collection during Paris Fashion Week.
Mario Grauso has held executive roles at Holt Renfrew, Vera Wang Group, Joe Fresh, Puig Fashion (parent company of Carolina Herrera), Nina Ricci, and Paco Rabanne. Earlier in his career, he worked at Celine, Calvin Klein, and Giorgio Armani.
｜Source: Brand/Corporate Websites and Official LinkedIn Profiles, Executive Personal LinkedIn Profiles, Forbes, Morningstar, WatchPro USA, Milano Finanza, Pambianconews, fashionmagazine.it
｜Image Credit: Brand/Corporate Websites and Official LinkedIn Profiles, Executive Personal LinkedIn Profiles
｜Editor: LeZhi
