Founder of Dilmah Tea, Merrill J. Fernando, passes away
By Dean Blake
Merrill J. Fernando, who founded the Dilmah Ceylon Tea Company, has passed away at the age of 93.
Fernando’s son and current CEO of Dilmah, Dilhan Fernando, said his father’s legacy would be everlasting.
“Our hearts are heavy as we bid farewell to a visionary and a true tea pioneer, Merrill Fernando. His remarkable journey and unwavering passion have left an indelible mark on the world of tea,” Dilhan said.
“As we mourn the loss of a beloved father and founder, we are committed to upholding his legacy, continuing his mission to deliver the finest, ethically sourced tea to tea lovers worldwide.”
Fernando’s slogan, ‘Do Try It’, helped spread the Dilmah business worldwide.
“His spirit will forever inspire us to strive for excellence and make a positive impact on the lives of others. We extend our deepest gratitude to all who have shared their condolences and supported us during this difficult time,” Dilhan said.
Tom Ford Fashion names new CEO following acquisition
By Dean Blake
Former Bulgari executive vice president Lelio Gavazza will take up the role of chief executive at Tom Ford Fashion, effective September 18.
Gavazza’s role has been newly created and will see him work together with Tom Ford CEO Guillaume Jesel, who joined in May shortly after the business was acquired by Ermenegildo Zegna Group. Tom Ford was previously owned by the Estée Lauder Companies.
In this role, Gavazza will report directly to Ermenegildo Zegna, chairman and CEO of Zegna Group.
“Lelio’s track record of strong global leadership brings outstanding luxury expertise to Tom Ford Fashion across retail management, wholesale distribution, marketing, digital, and key markets including China,” Zegna said.
“I have personally known and appreciated Lelio for many years, and I’m confident that his world-class business acumen, deep international experience, and leadership skills will prove invaluable.”
Gavazza has over two decades of experience working across global luxury brands, and said he is honoured to join the brand.
Jean-François Palus named interim Gucci CEO amid Kering management shuffle
By Tong Van
Gucci’s president and CEO since 2015, Marco Bizzarri, is to leave the brand this September after serving at Kering Group for 18 years.
Jean-François Palus, who currently holds the MD role at Kering, will succeed Bizzarri as Gucci’s new president and CEO for a transitional period.
“Jean-François has been my right-hand man and a daily sparring partner for several decades,” said François-Henri Pinault, chairman and CEO of Kering Group. “He will now focus his energy on getting our largest asset in top shape.”
The executive change follows the departure of Gucci’s former creative director Alessandro Michele last November. Alongside CEO Bizzarri, Michele oversaw a period of soaring growth between 2015 and 2019, with profits increasing nearly four-fold and revenues almost trebling.
Meanwhile, Yves Saint Laurent’s president and CEO, Francesca Bellettini, and Kering’s CFO Jean-Marc Duplaix will take on the deputy CEO roles at Kering. Bellettini will oversee brand development, Duplaix operations and finance.
True Religion appoints new marketing lead
By Dean Blake
US denim and sportswear retailer True Religion has named Kristen D’Arcy as its first chief marketing officer. She brings almost 20 years’ experience working in marketing and e-commerce roles across fashion, specialty retail and beauty brands.
The role will report to CEO Michael Buckley, and sees D’Arcy join the brand during a transformation into a DTC, digital-first company.
“Kristen is the ideal candidate to fill this critical role,” said Buckley.
“She has a proven track record of creating business growth, fostering brand love, and managing high-performing teams. Her vast experience with top retail brands including Pacific Sun, Ralph Lauren, Coty, and Oscar de la Renta brings an important new layer of expertise to True Religion’s senior leadership team.”
