Lanvin Group on Thursday unveiled some key leadership and board changes “designed to strengthen its position in the luxury fashion industry and further advance its strategic goals”. 

It has appointed Andy Lew, CEO of St John Knits, as executive president of the group, while Eric Chan “will transition from his role” as CEO to join the board as a director.

The company said the changes reflect its “ongoing commitment to cultivating a dynamic, experienced leadership team capable of driving innovation and sustainable growth in a rapidly evolving market”.

It added that Lew brings more than 35 years of experience in the fashion industry, “with a proven track record of leadership and operational excellence in the luxury sector”.

The business has clearly appreciated his abilities while he’s been running its St John Knits business and has now tasked him with overseeing its wider group operations, “including strategic implementation, business development and growth, financial management, supply chain, information technology, and brand operations”. 

Importantly too, he’ll “continue to serve as a key leader within St John Knits International Inc”, but with day-to-day operations managed by a newly established management committee.

As mentioned, Lew has a long and impressive track record and previously held senior positions at Brooks Brothers Group, Ermenegildo Zegna Group, and Nordstrom Inc, “where he played a pivotal role in driving business expansion, leading high-performing teams, and navigating complex global markets”.

What’s also interesting is that as part of his elevation to a more expansive role, the group will establish a second HQ in Europe, which will be led by Lew “to support the company’s global expansion”.

The company, which owns Lanvin, Wolford, Sergio Rossi, St John Knits, and Caruso, is currently headquartered in Shanghai, although its shares are listed on the New York Stock Exchange.

Another change that comes along with the other developments is that the board has approved an expansion from eight to nine members and appointed Alan Liu as a director to replace Grace Fang, alongside Eric Chan’s move to become a director, effective immediately.

Chairman Zhen Huang said the changes “mark an exciting chapter for Lanvin Group as we continue to grow and innovate in the luxury fashion industry. Establishing a second headquarters in Europe under Andy’s leadership underscores our commitment to strengthening our global operations and market presence. I want to thank Eric Chan for his dedicated service as CEO and look forward to his continued contributions as a board member. With Andy’s exceptional expertise and the strengthened board, I am confident we will exceed our strategic goals and deliver even greater value to our stakeholders.”