Is the hottest seat in fashion reserved for Francesca Bellettini? The Italian executive currently serves as Deputy CEO of Kering and is responsible for Gucci’s development. However, speculation has long circulated around her increasingly central role within the Florentine brand. Now, with the appointment of Luca De Meo as Kering’s new CEO, the cards may be reshuffled once again. The rumour that Bellettini will take over as Gucci’s CEO is gaining traction, with the manager poised to replace Stefano Cantino.
Bellettini to become Gucci’s CEO?
Could the moment long predicted by many have finally arrived? Ever since Marco Bizzarri’s departure from Gucci, industry watchers have suggested that Francesca Bellettini would eventually be named CEO of the brand. According to Miss Tweed, citing sources familiar with the matter, that time may be imminent. De Meo’s arrival at the helm of Kering is expected to bring about further leadership changes within the French luxury group. From the outset, his appointment led analysts and insiders to speculate on his relationship with Bellettini, more so than with Jean-Marc Duplaix, Kering’s other Deputy CEO, who focuses on financial matters. So much so, that market rumours even suggested Bellettini might leave Kering for roles at Armani or Prada.
The relaunch with Demna
Those same rumours may have convinced the Pinault family, which controls Kering and thus Gucci, not to let go of the executive talent they have nurtured in-house. For the Pinaults, Francesca Bellettini is off limits. And Luca De Meo’s arrival will not overshadow the Italian manager, who could form, alongside Demna, the strategic duo leading Gucci’s revival — or so Kering hopes. Bellettini could now be in line to succeed Stefano Cantino, who was appointed CEO of Gucci in October 2024.
Photos: Kering and Gucci
