Luxury conglomerate LVMH has announced a strategic shift in its beauty division's leadership. Véronique Courtois has been named chairman and chief executive officer of the group's beauty sector. She will concurrently maintain her position as chairman and CEO of Parfums Christian Dior and will be a new addition to the group's executive committee.
Effective immediately, Ms. Courtois will be responsible for overseeing a portfolio of renowned brands, including Guerlain, Acqua di Parma, Givenchy Parfums, Kenzo Parfums, Loewe Parfums, Maison Francis Kurkdjian, Fresh, Benefit Cosmetics, Fenty Beauty, and Officine Universelle Buly. LVMH's statement on Monday highlighted her extensive experience within the company's beauty Maisons and her remarkable contributions to the growth and desirability of Parfums Christian Dior, emphasizing that her leadership will be a valuable asset to the brands under her purview. Ms. Courtois' journey with LVMH began in 2000, and she served as president and CEO of Guerlain from 2019 to 2023 before assuming her role at Parfums Christian Dior in March 2023. She takes over from Stéphane Rinderknech, who has decided to pursue other personal ventures, with Stéphane Bianchi, managing director of LVMH, expressing gratitude for his contributions, particularly in the hospitality division and later in beauty.
In another significant development, Antoine Arnault, who serves as LVMH's director of image and environment and is the eldest son of CEO Bernard Arnault, is also set to join the executive committee. Mr. Arnault previously held the CEO position at Berluti from 2011 to late 2023, where he remains chairman, and chaired Loro Piana from 2013 to 2025. Since 2018, his responsibilities have included overseeing the group's communications and environmental initiatives, notably securing LVMH's sponsorship deal with the Paris Olympic Committee. He has also been CEO of the family holding company Christian Dior SE since December 2022. With this appointment, two of Bernard Arnault’s children, Delphine and Antoine, are now members of LVMH's executive committee, joining other distinguished members such as Bianchi, Pietro Beccari, Damien Bertrand, Guillaume Motte, and Jean-Jacques Guiony. Mr. Bianchi lauded Ms. Courtois' and Mr. Arnault's consistent demonstration of the group's values and their impactful achievements throughout their careers at LVMH, expressing confidence that their unique expertise and knowledge will be instrumental in shaping the company's future strategic direction.
These strategic appointments at LVMH underscore a forward-looking vision, emphasizing continuity, expertise, and a blend of seasoned leadership with fresh perspectives. By leveraging the deep industry knowledge and proven track records of individuals like Véronique Courtois and Antoine Arnault, LVMH reinforces its commitment to sustained growth and innovation within the competitive luxury market. This proactive approach ensures the group remains at the forefront of the industry, capable of adapting to evolving market demands and fostering a legacy of excellence and dynamism. The integration of key figures into the executive committee signifies a harmonious blend of family values and corporate governance, paving the way for a future where tradition meets progressive leadership, ultimately strengthening LVMH's global influence and market position.