Michele Sofisti has stepped down as CEO of Gucci (Kering Group) for watches and jewelry. In a statement, the company said Sofisti, who had been in the position since 2009, was leaving to “pursue other personal and professional opportunities.” The decision surprised many. “Michele was the mastermind of Gucci’s turnaround and planned the expansion into the watches business,” said Patrizio di Marco, Gucci’s chairman and CEO. “All credit for the success of GGWJ belongs to him and the great team he built. Michele is a great executive who loved this brand and succeeded where anyone else would have failed. He is a great person with a big heart who I am honored to call my friend.” “The last six years have brought great satisfaction, we have begun to uncover the potential of these two categories for the Gucci brand,” Sofisti said. “There is an exceptional management team that will ensure the work continues.” Sofisti’s successor has not yet been announced.
