Bottega Veneta appoints Romain Spitzer as CEO

Kering has appointed Romain Spitzer as Chief Executive Officer of Bottega Veneta, with the luxury executive set to take up the role on 1 September as the Italian fashion house enters its next phase of growth.

Spitzer joins from LVMH, where he most recently served as President and CEO of Fragrance Group LVMH Beauty, overseeing a portfolio of luxury brands.

He brings more than 30 years of international experience across fragrance, beauty and luxury, having previously held senior roles at Guerlain, Jean Paul Gaultier Parfums, Yves Saint Laurent Parfums and Parfums Christian Dior before joining LVMH in 2016.

Based in Milan, Spitzer will report directly to Kering CEO Luca de Meo and will join the group’s Executive Committee. He succeeds Bartomoleo Rongone, who stepped down earlier this year after six years to become CEO of Moncler.

In his new role, Spitzer will focus on strengthening Bottega Veneta’s global appeal, deepening relationships with customers and driving retail excellence across international markets.

Luca de Meo said: “Bottega Veneta is one of the strongest and most distinctive Houses in luxury, with exceptional craftsmanship, a unique creative identity and remarkable growth potential. Romain has the leadership, vision and international experience to unlock the next phase of the House’s development.

“I am confident he will build on its extraordinary strengths and take Bottega Veneta to the next level.”

The appointment comes as Kering continues its wider turnaround strategy following a challenging period for the luxury sector. Earlier this year, de Meo unveiled the group’s “ReconKering” plan, aimed at restoring growth through sharper execution, stronger brand positioning and improved operational performance.

In its most recent first-quarter results, Kering reported revenue of €3.5 billion, down 6% year-on-year, while sales across its fashion and leather goods division, which includes Gucci, Saint Laurent, Balenciaga, Brioni and Bottega Veneta, fell 9% to €2.8 billion.

Despite softer market conditions, Bottega Veneta has remained one of Kering's strongest-performing brands in recent years, with the group positioning the house to build on its reputation for craftsmanship, creativity and understated luxury under Spitzer's leadership.