It’s no secret that the global fashion industry has been in a constant state of flux over the past twelve months. Raf Simons left Dior last year, Calvin Klein’s creative directors are leaving their posts, and Karl Lagerfeld labelled the state of affairs “a mess.” As of today, there’s another major switch up to note. Marketing management aficionado Emmanuel Gintzburger has been appointed as the new CEO of Alexander McQueen. The strategic move will likely propel Britain’s most romantic fashion house towards heights more dazzling than the rainbow feathers featured in the late McQueen’s spring/summer 08 show.
According to the Kering Group, Emmanuel Gintzburger will commence leadership from May 9 as his predecessor Jonathan Akeroyd bids farewell. Over his twelve years as CEO, Jonathan guided the brand through the tragic loss of McQueen and oversaw its subsequent international expansion. He is set to pursue interests that lie outside of the world of McQueen.
Naturally, there’s quite a bit of pressure on Emmanuel to live up to Jonathan, but he’s got the CV to back him. Before McQueen, Mr. Gintzburger had great success in a number of retail marketing and management roles across the luxury and beauty industries. From 2011 to 2016, Emmanuel was at Yves Saint Laurent working as the Worldwide Retail and Wholesale Director. For the three years prior, he served as the house’s European Marketing Director.
It appears Emmanuel will handle his appointment as McQueen head honcho well. Despite earlier rumors that she may be jumping ship to Calvin Klein, Sarah Burton will remain the brand’s Creative Director, so we look forward to seeing where fashion’s latest match made in couturier heaven will take McQueen next.
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Credits
Text Hannah Butterworth
Photography Emma Summerton, The Lovers of Life Issue, No. 305 Pre-Spring 2010