Francesca Bellettini
President and chief executive of Gucci (since 2025)
Francesca Bellettini is an Italian luxury executive who was appointed president and chief executive of Gucci in September 2025. She previously ran Saint Laurent for more than a decade and served as Kering's deputy chief executive in charge of brand development, making her one of the most senior women in luxury fashion.
| Role | President and chief executive, Gucci |
|---|---|
| Since | September 2025 |
| Previously | President and chief executive, Saint Laurent (2013 to 2024) |
| Also | Kering deputy chief executive, brand development (2023 to 2025) |
| Nationality | Italian |
Who is Francesca Bellettini?
Francesca Bellettini is one of the most experienced executives in the luxury industry. Since September 2025 she has been president and chief executive of Gucci, the largest fashion house in the Kering group. Kering's chief executive Luca de Meo described her as "one of the most seasoned and respected professionals in our industry" when announcing the appointment.
Career
Bellettini began her career in investment banking before moving into fashion, with roles at Prada Group and Helmut Lang. She joined Gucci in 2003, where she worked as strategic planning director and associate worldwide merchandising director, and later held senior management positions at Bottega Veneta.
In 2013 she became president and chief executive of Saint Laurent, leading the house for more than ten years. In September 2023 she was also named Kering deputy chief executive in charge of brand development. From January 2025 she handed the Saint Laurent role to Cédric Charbit and focused exclusively on developing all of Kering's fashion, leather goods and jewellery houses, with the chief executives of Saint Laurent and Balenciaga reporting to her.
In September 2025, shortly after Luca de Meo became Kering's chief executive, the group appointed Bellettini president and chief executive of Gucci and eliminated the deputy chief executive positions. De Meo said Gucci, "as the flagship of our group, deserves the sharpest focus".
Influence on the fashion business
Bellettini's career reflects several important themes in luxury management:
- Long, stable partnerships between chief executives and creative directors
- Growing a house through tight brand control and selective distribution
- Group level oversight of a portfolio of luxury brands
- Turnaround leadership at a flagship brand under pressure
Her time at Saint Laurent is widely regarded as one of the strongest periods in the house's commercial history, and that record is the main reason Kering turned to her to lead the recovery of Gucci.
Why it matters
Gucci accounts for a large share of Kering's revenue, so its performance is decisive for the whole group. As its chief executive, Bellettini holds one of the most consequential jobs in luxury fashion at a time when the sector is adjusting to slower demand and creative change. Her appointment is also a prominent example of a woman leading a major luxury house.
Frequently asked questions
Who is the CEO of Gucci?
Francesca Bellettini was appointed president and chief executive of Gucci in September 2025 by Kering's chief executive Luca de Meo. She previously ran Saint Laurent and served as Kering's deputy chief executive.
What is Francesca Bellettini known for?
She is best known for leading Saint Laurent as president and chief executive from 2013 into 2024, a period of strong growth for the house. She has also held senior roles at Gucci, Bottega Veneta and Prada Group.