Valentino is shaking things up at the top! The iconic Italian fashion house has just announced a significant leadership change, bringing in a new powerhouse to steer its global marketing efforts. This move signals a fresh direction for the brand as it continues to evolve in the dynamic luxury landscape.
Meet the New Marketing Maestro: Liran Peterzil is stepping into the crucial role of Chief Marketing Officer, effective March 2nd. He'll be reporting directly to the CEO, Riccardo Bellini, and will be instrumental in shaping Valentino's worldwide brand strategy. This appointment sees him succeed Yigit Turhan, who departed the company after joining in 2018.
Peterzil's mandate is broad and impactful. He'll be responsible for overseeing all aspects of marketing, communications, events, media relations, and the overall brand experience across the globe. Think of him as the architect of how Valentino connects with its audience everywhere, from the grandest fashion shows to the most intimate brand interactions.
A Wealth of Experience for a Luxury Giant: Valentino is clearly banking on Peterzil's extensive international background. With over 20 years of experience in developing and communicating brands, particularly within the high-stakes realms of luxury, hospitality, and entertainment, he brings a unique perspective. His impressive career includes senior leadership roles at prestigious organizations like Compagnie Financière Richemont, Giorgio Armani, SBE Entertainment Group, and Creative Artists Agency (CAA). He's also lent his expertise to government institutions and various industry partners worldwide, demonstrating a truly global and cross-sectoral understanding.
Building a Stronger Foundation: CEO Riccardo Bellini, who took the helm on September 1st, has been strategically assembling his team to usher in a new era for the Rome-based couture house. This new appointment follows the earlier addition of Laurent Bergamo as Deputy CEO in December. Bergamo himself has a strong track record, having joined Valentino in 2018 after a significant 14-year tenure at Tod’s.
And the changes don't stop there! Davide Tosi has also been appointed as the new Chief Merchandising Officer. Tosi previously held the position of Global Chief Merchandising Officer for ready-to-wear at Gucci. This move is particularly interesting as he reported to Maria Cristina Lomanto, who departed Gucci in mid-November. Lomanto had a notable career at Gucci, serving as President of Europe, the Middle East, and Africa since 2025 and as EVP, Brand General Manager since 2022.
But here's where it gets interesting... With such significant leadership shifts, especially in marketing and merchandising, the question arises: how will these new strategies redefine Valentino's brand identity and its connection with consumers? Will Peterzil's diverse experience in entertainment and hospitality translate into more experiential marketing campaigns for the fashion house? And how will these changes impact the creative direction under Alessandro Michele, who recently showcased his Fall 2026 collection in Rome?
What are your thoughts on these executive appointments? Do you believe this is the right move for Valentino to navigate the future of luxury? Share your opinions in the comments below – I'd love to hear your take!
