Jacopo Venturini has exited his role as CEO of Valentino, marking the end of a five-year tenure during which he navigated creative transitions and a shifting luxury market. His departure comes as the brand grapples with declining performance and a pending full acquisition by Kering.
A Quiet Exit from Rome
In a discreet yet pivotal move for the fashion world, Jacopo Venturini has officially stepped down as CEO of Valentino. The Roman maison announced his departure on August 13, citing a mutual agreement and Venturini’s decision to take a personal break. A new CEO has yet to be appointed, but an announcement is expected in the near future.
A Tenure Defined by Creative and Commercial Collaboration
Venturini joined Valentino in mid-2020, following a successful period at Gucci, where he served as vice president of merchandising and global markets. At Valentino, he initially partnered with long-time creative director Pierpaolo Piccioli, later reuniting with Alessandro Michele in 2024, reigniting the dynamic that had helped define Gucci’s previous era of success.
Sales Slip and Strategic Shifts
The change in leadership comes amid a challenging period for the house. In 2024, Valentino’s revenues fell 2% to €1.31 billion, while EBITDA dropped 22% year-on-year to €246 million. These figures underscore the mounting pressure on the brand to return to growth amid a global luxury market slowdown.
Kering’s Future Stake
Venturini’s departure also coincides with the evolving ownership structure of Valentino. In 2023, Mayhoola sold a 30% stake in the brand to Kering, setting the stage for a full acquisition by 2028. With automotive veteran Luca de Meo set to become Kering’s CEO this September, industry insiders are watching closely to see if he rethinks the deal or its timeline.
What Comes Next
As Valentino prepares to usher in new executive leadership, the brand stands at a strategic crossroads. Revitalizing growth, cementing Michele’s new creative direction, and navigating Kering’s potential takeover will be critical responsibilities for whoever steps into the top role. For now, the luxury world waits to see who will lead Valentino into its next act.
Writen By: Lydia Kelly
Published: 19th August 2025