Resta will replace current CEO François-Henry Bennahmias (Photo: Pierre-Olivier/Firmenich)
Audemars Piguet also recently announced the appointment of Ilaria Resta as its new CEO, effective Jan 1, 2024, after a five-month transition period starting August. Resta will replace current CEO François-Henry Bennahmias, who previously announced his intention to leave the company after dedicating almost 30 years to the luxury watch brand. To facilitate a smooth leadership transition, Bennahmias will continue as interim CEO until the end of 2023.
“We are delighted to welcome Miss Resta as our new CEO. A visionary leader with a passion for craftsmanship, Ilaria will take Audemars Piguet into the future as we continue to develop our brand, blend tradition with innovation, and strengthen our direct connection to clients.
Her proven record of delivering results through a clear strategic thinking based on deep consumer insights will keep AP’s legacy relevant for generations to come and ensure long-lasting growth. Ilaria’s belief in the empowerment of teams and her accomplishments as an inspirational leader in corporate sustainability fully align with Audemars Piguet’s long-standing values as an independent family-owned company.
“On behalf of the board of directors, we would like to thank François for his three decades of service. His transformational leadership has been essential in building the success story AP is today. We are grateful for his indelible contribution and his commitment to stay until the end of the year to ensure a smooth transition,” says Alessandro Bogliolo, chairman of Audemars Piguet
Prior to joining AP, Resta served as president of global perfumery and ingredients at Firmenich and worked for Procter & Gamble for more than two decades with senior roles at its European and US headquarters, where she built iconic global brands. She holds dual Swiss-Italian citizenship and resides near Geneva, Switzerland.
This article first appeared on May 29, 2023 in The Edge Malaysia.
