Jean-Christophe Babin appointed CEO of the Watches Division of LVMH

Jean Christophe Babin, CEO of Bulgari since 2013, will take over as head of the LVMH Watches division from 1st April, replacing Frédéric Arnault, who has now been called upon to head the Loro Piana brand. This appointment comes at a time when the group's watch brands need to consolidate their position in the Swiss watch industry, which is facing difficulties, particularly in the decline of its watch exports. Jean-Christophe Babin will report to Stéphane Bianchi and will also retain his current position as CEO of Bvlgari. In his new role, Jean-Christophe Babin will continue the work initiated by Frédéric Arnault, building and orchestrating the development and growth strategies of Hublot, TAG Heuer and Zenith.

Jean-Christophe Babin seems well placed for this mission, as he himself managed the TAG Heuer brand from 2000 to 2013, and under his leadership, the Bulgari brand saw significant growth in its various watchmaking, jewellery and hospitality divisions.

Julien Tornare, CEO of Hublot, Antoine Pin, CEO of TAG Heuer and Benoit de Clerck, CEO of Zenith report to him. Stéphane Bianchi, Deputy Managing Director of the LVMH group, comments: ‘Under the impetus of Frédéric Arnault, the Watch Division has undergone a profound transformation, notably with the implementation of operational synergies between the Group's watchmaking companies, and in-depth work on the positioning and challenges of each of them. I would like to thank Frédéric, and am delighted that this momentum will continue with the appointment of Jean-Christophe, who will be able to use his entrepreneurial spirit, his energy and his exceptional leadership qualities to promote the Division's sustainable and ambitious growth.’