On May 6, 2025, luxury group Kering announced new leadership appointments at two of its heritage houses. Mehdi Benabadji has been named CEO of Ginori 1735, while Federico Arrigoni has been appointed CEO of Brioni. Both executives bring a wealth of experience from within the Kering ecosystem, and their appointments signal the group’s ongoing strategy to redefine and strengthen its diverse brand portfolio.
Benabadji, who has led Brioni since 2020, takes the helm at Ginori 1735. During his tenure at Brioni, he successfully implemented strategic reforms and oversaw international expansion. Under his leadership, the house underwent a successful operational reorganization, solidifying its standing in the luxury menswear space. Now, at Ginori 1735, he is expected to guide the next phase of the brand’s global growth. He will report directly to Jean-Marc Duplaix, Deputy CEO and Chief Operating Officer of Kering.
Commenting on the appointment, Duplaix stated:
“Ginori 1735 is a gem of Italian savoir-faire in porcelain, tableware and decoration, and I am glad that Mehdi will bring his deep understanding of traditional craftsmanship as well as his strong experience in international brand development to the House. I am sure that he will help Ginori 1735 reach the further stage in its global growth.”
Once known as the “art of the table,” Ginori 1735 has long been celebrated for its cultural and artisanal legacy. Yet, in recent years, it has lagged behind in terms of digital transformation and international strategy. Benabadji’s appointment may mark a turning point in the brand’s evolution—from a heritage decorative arts label to a modern global luxury lifestyle brand.
Meanwhile, Federico Arrigoni steps into the role of CEO at Brioni. He most recently served as Deputy CEO and President of Asia Pacific at Saint Laurent. Arrigoni joined Kering in 2006 via Gucci, where he held various HR roles before moving to Saint Laurent in 2015. There, he took on senior leadership positions including Global HR Director, President of Asia Pacific, Chief Commercial Officer, and ultimately Deputy CEO.
As CEO of Brioni, Arrigoni will be responsible for further strengthening the brand’s global positioning and increasing its appeal and relevance in the luxury space. He will report to Francesca Bellettini, Kering’s Deputy CEO in charge of brand development.
“I trust that his extensive knowledge of the industry and his strong international experience make him the best profile to drive Brioni into the next phase of its development, building on the House’s remarkable history and achievements,” Bellettini commented.
As Brioni seeks to harmonize its traditional craftsmanship with contemporary luxury values, Arrigoni’s expertise in organizational leadership and cross-cultural management may serve as a quiet yet steady engine for brand renewal.
The executive reshuffle at Ginori 1735 and Brioni is more than just a personnel change—it reflects Kering’s broader vision for shaping the future of luxury. In 2024, the group employed approximately 47,000 people and generated €17.2 billion in revenue. Behind these figures lies a clear ambition: to respect the identity and craftsmanship of each house while reinforcing their global competitiveness in an increasingly dynamic market.
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