Gucci is entering a new phase of strategic rebuilding with the appointment of Gianluca de Ficchy as its new Chief Financial Officer. The announcement marks yet another key move by Kering’s new CEO, Luca de Meo, who is drawing heavily from his former automotive career at Renault to reshape the luxury group.
Gianluca de Ficchy, a seasoned executive with deep experience in financial management and mobility services, will officially step into his new role on December 1. A Gucci representative confirmed that he will report directly to Francesca Bellettini, the president and CEO of the iconic Italian fashion brand. His arrival comes during an important transition period for Gucci, which contributes more than half of Kering’s total profit but has been struggling to regain momentum in recent years.
Before joining Gucci, de Ficchy served as CEO of Mobilize, Renault’s mobility division focused on auto financing, car-sharing, and electric vehicle charging. He left Renault in October, creating an ideal window for Kering to bring him onboard. Known for his strong financial leadership and ability to guide businesses through complex transformations, de Ficchy appears well-suited for the challenges ahead.
His appointment follows the departure of Gucci’s long-time financial chief Alberto Valente, who left in September after nearly 17 years. Valente oversaw finance, data, and operations, leaving a significant leadership gap that Gucci is now moving quickly to fill.
This is not the first time Luca de Meo has turned to Renault for top-tier talent. Since taking over as CEO of Kering in September, de Meo has brought in several former colleagues from the automotive group. Earlier, he hired Thomas Cuntz, a Renault veteran of 24 years, to lead talent development and people engagement. Kering also recently welcomed Philippine de Schonen, Renault’s former head of mergers and acquisitions and investor relations, to run its IR department.
These appointments are part of a larger optimization plan by de Meo to revive growth, reduce debt, and improve operational efficiency across Kering’s portfolio. According to the company’s recent “ReconKering” document, the strategy includes reorganizing internal structures, raising prices, reducing store networks, and lowering the group’s dependence on Gucci. The plan is expected to be fully unveiled in the spring.
Gucci, once the engine of Kering’s success, has recently seen double-digit sales declines, while the group’s debt has continued to rise. As a result, de Meo is shifting more focus toward other major brands, including Saint Laurent, Bottega Veneta, and Balenciaga, to balance the group’s revenue streams.
With Gianluca de Ficchy stepping into a crucial financial role, industry watchers are keen to see whether this Renault-inspired leadership reshuffle will give Gucci and Kering the stability and momentum they urgently need.
