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Adrien Da Maia, president and CEO of Courrèges, is exiting the brand to be succeeded by Marie Leblanc, effective 4 November. Artémis, the holding company of the Pinault family that controls Kering and took full control of Courrèges in 2018, announced the switch up on Monday.
It’s the latest executive change in an ongoing industry-wide shakeup that’s seen a dizzying amount of exec and creative director reshuffling. Leblanc most recently served as CEO of Victoria Beckham, before stepping down earlier this month.
“Marie’s unique talent lies in her ability to fully immerse herself in the creative process, ensuring it remains constantly aligned with the brand’s identity, while crafting an operational strategy that supports and enhances this creative vision. This is precisely what Courrèges needs to continue its growth trajectory,” François-Henri Pinault, chairman and CEO of Kering and Artémis, said in a statement. “I would like to wholeheartedly thank Adrien Da Maia, who has skillfully led the renewal of Courrèges since 2020, allowing the brand to be well positioned for a new successful chapter in its history.”
“Over the past four years, the remarkable work of the artistic direction has established a strong creative vision and infused a new energy into the brand. Courrèges embodies a clear purpose, blending rigour and movement, impeccable cuts and high standards, with the opportunity to connect with diverse customers,” Leblanc stated.
After years of instability at the heritage house founded by André Courrèges and his wife Coqueline in 1961, Da Maia has led an impressive turnaround during his tenure. After joining the brand in March 2020, one of his first moves was to appoint Belgian designer Nicolas Di Felice as artistic director in September that year. Under that duo, Courrèges has regained traction by focusing on a younger customer; its conceptual fashion shows have been well received. Courrèges doesn’t share revenues, but it has hit triple-digit growth annually across 2021 and 2022, and was set to double its business in 2023, according to the company. Da Maia now intends to pursue an entrepreneurial project, according to Artémis.
Leblanc joins Courrèges, also with a strong track record, having led growth at Victoria Beckham over the last five years. As reported, chairman Ralph Toledano will act as interim CEO until the company names a successor.
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