LVMH has announced a significant leadership transition at its esteemed luxury brand, Bvlgari, with Laura Burdese stepping into the role of Chief Executive Officer. This strategic move, effective July 1, marks a new chapter for the Roman jewelry maison. Burdese, who previously held positions as chief marketing officer and deputy CEO at Bvlgari, brings a wealth of experience from her tenure within the LVMH Group, having also served as CEO of Acqua di Parma.
Burdese will report directly to Stéphane Bianchi, the managing director and CEO of LVMH Watches & Jewelry, signaling a streamlined leadership structure aimed at further enhancing Bvlgari's market position. Her promotion underscores a commitment to fostering internal talent and leveraging a deep understanding of the luxury sector's intricate dynamics. This appointment is poised to usher in innovative strategies for brand elevation and market expansion.
Her predecessor, Jean-Christophe Babin, is transitioning to new, pivotal roles within the LVMH ecosystem. He will assume the chairmanship of the Bvlgari board, lead the Bvlgari Hotel business as CEO, and serve as president of the Bvlgari Foundation. Additionally, Babin will continue his leadership as CEO of LVMH Watches, overseeing prestigious brands such as Tag Heuer, Hublot, and Zenith. His multifaceted new responsibilities highlight his enduring value to the luxury conglomerate.
Babin's decade-long leadership at Bvlgari, which began in 2013, has been marked by extraordinary growth. Under his guidance, Bvlgari transformed into a global powerhouse, achieving estimated revenues of €3.27 billion in 2024, a significant leap from less than €1 billion in 2010 before LVMH's acquisition. His achievements include a robust expansion of Bvlgari’s high jewelry, watchmaking, and hotel divisions, alongside a strong dedication to preserving and promoting Italian craftsmanship, exemplified by the establishment of a major jewelry production site in Valenza and the Scuola Bvlgari.
Stéphane Bianchi lauded the collaborative efforts between Burdese and Babin, emphasizing their joint contributions to Bvlgari's brand elevation. He expressed confidence that Burdese's appointment would open a vibrant new chapter for Bvlgari, acknowledging her substantial achievements. Bianchi also praised Babin's visionary leadership in shaping the success of both Tag Heuer and Bvlgari, anticipating his continued support and strategic insight across LVMH's diverse portfolio.