LVMH-owned Christian Dior has announced the appointment of Benedetta Petruzzo to the role of managing director, effective October 15.
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Petruzzo succeeds Charles Delapalme, who will take on “important new responsibilities” within the LVMH Group, according to the luxury fashion brand, which will be announced at a later date.
A luxury executive, Petruzzo comes to Dior from Prada Group, where she served as CEO of the Italian firm’s Miu Miu brand, a role she held since 2020.
Prior to Miu Miu, Petruzzo was executive vice president for North America at Kering Eyewear, where she worked for five years holding key management positions. She started her career in finance before joining the management consulting firm Bain & Company, where she worked for several years in the retail and luxury sector.
“I am convinced that Benedetta’s talent and leadership will be major assets in the continued development of Dior’s activities and its international influence,” said Delphine Arnault, chairman and chief executive officer of Christian Dior Couture.
“Her expertise in the luxury market will persist in enhancing the desirability and success of Dior. Together, with the excellence of the teams in place, we will carry on building the future and strengthening our organisation.”
Arnault, the scion of LVMH chief Bernard Arnault, went on to thank Delapalme for his “commitment” and “contribution” to Dior, since joining the brand in 2018.
“I am deeply honored to join Dior. I am proud to have been entrusted with this
great responsibility and to join such an iconic house,” added Petruzzo.
“I would like to warmly thank Delphine Arnault for the trust she has given me, and I look forward to collaborating closely with the executive committee and the zones presidents to further contribute to the development of Dior’s business.”
Petruzzo’s appointment comes at a time where parent LVMH is looking to boost sales across its brand portfolio, including Dior, as the luxury industry fends off a downturn in demand for high-priced goods.
In its most recent trading update, LVMH said revenue rose just 1 percent in the first half to EUR 41.7 billion, with the luxury conglomerate’s Asia excluding Japan business plummeting by double digits. The Paris-based firms fashion and leather goods business recorded organic revenue growth of 1 percent, with operating margin up at the firm’s flagship fashion brands, Louis Vuitton and Christian Dior, alongside a growing demand for Celine accessories.