Story Highlight
– Laura Burdese appointed Bulgari CEO from July 2026.
– Succeeds Jean-Christophe Babin after 12-year tenure.
– Burdese previously served as deputy chief executive.
– Babin remains chairman and hotel business unit CEO.
– Burdese aims to consolidate Bulgari’s market position.
Full Story
LVMH has announced the appointment of Laura Burdese as the new chief executive of Bulgari, effective from 1 July 2026. Currently serving as the deputy chief executive of the luxury jewellery brand, Burdese will take over from Jean-Christophe Babin, who is concluding a twelve-year tenure in the role.
Burdese will report directly to Stéphane Bianchi, the group managing director of LVMH and chief executive of LVMH Watches and Jewelry. Her extensive career at LVMH spans nearly ten years, during which she began as the chief executive of Acqua di Parma before joining Bulgari in 2022 as chief marketing officer. She ascended to her current role as deputy chief executive in July 2024, guiding the brand through a successful period of repositioning and expansion.
In her new position, Burdese aims to build on the foundations laid by Babin, with a focus on enhancing Bulgari’s market standing and promoting sustainable growth initiatives. Babin, who has been with LVMH for over 25 years, will transition to a role as chairman of the Bulgari board, alongside continuing his leadership within the Bulgari hotel business and presidency of the Bulgari Foundation.
Reflecting on her appointment, Burdese expressed her enthusiasm, stating, “I am honoured to be appointed CEO of Bulgari. Leading a brand with such a strong identity is something I approach with commitment, care, and a deep sense of responsibility.” She further acknowledged Babin’s influence, stating, “Working alongside him has been a privilege. His leadership has profoundly shaped Bvlgari, strengthening its Roman spirit, creative ambition, and global presence.”
Burdese also took a moment to commend the Bulgari team, emphasizing their critical role in the brand’s success: “Your talent, dedication, and generosity are the human force behind everything Bvlgari does. It is with you that I look forward to the next chapter: continuing to build with care, fostering creativity and responsibility, and shaping a future that remains true to who we are, while opening new paths forward — together.”
This leadership transition comes at a time when Bulgari is striving to reinforce its luxury positioning within a competitive marketplace.
