Paris, Île-de-France, France, July 2025 – Eric Vallat has been named the new Chief Executive Officer of Lacoste, effective 1st September 2025, succeeding Thierry Guibert, who steps down after a decade of transformative leadership. Guibert will remain closely involved in the brand’s future direction while continuing in his role as CEO of MF BRANDS GROUP.
Thierry Guibert, CEO of MF Brands Group, stated: “I’ve had the privilege of leading Lacoste for over a decade, surrounded by remarkable teams, and of supporting the profound transformation that has taken the brand into an entirely new dimension I have now chosen to refocus my role on leading the Group. I’m very pleased to entrust the reins of Lacoste to Éric Vallat, a bold leader with a recognised track record. His sharp expertise and proven experience will be major assets in continuing to unlock the brand’s full potential. I’m confident that Éric Vallat will build on the momentum we’ve created, with the same high standards and collective spirit, and guide Lacoste into a new chapter of growth, true to its identity while continuing to move confidently forward. As CEO of MF Brands Group, I will of course remain by his side to support him through this new phase.”
Vallat’s career spans more than two decades in the luxury and premium lifestyle segments. Most recently, he served as CEO at Rémy Cointreau, where he led the French heritage spirits group with brands like Rémy Martin, Louis XIII, and Cointreau, driving global expansion and reinforcing its positioning in the high-end consumer segment.
Prior to that, he was Head of Fashion and Accessories Maisons at Richemont, overseeing prestigious labels such as Alaïa, Chloé, and Montblanc. His leadership focus has consistently blended luxury craftsmanship with modern commercial strategy, making him well-suited to steer Lacoste’s global operations and cultural legacy.
Vallat also served as CEO at Remy Martin, and held senior leadership roles at Bonpoint, J.M. WESTON, Christian Dior Couture Japan, and Louis Vuitton, where he held various strategic roles across Europe and France. His career began at BNP Paribas, where he worked in structured finance before transitioning into luxury retail.
About Lacoste
At the crossroads of fashion and sport, Lacoste is a timeless and global brand driven by movement, creativity, and cross-cultural appeal. With operations in over 100 countries and more than 8,500 employees, the brand offers a complete range of lifestyle products—including apparel, footwear, leather goods, eyewear, fragrances, and watches—all crafted with distinctive savoir-faire and a strong commitment to ethics and quality.
Lacoste is part of the MF BRANDS GROUP, which also includes GANT, Aigle, Tecnifibre, and until recently, The Kooples. The group is known for its strong values in premium fashion and responsible business.
About MF Brands Group
MF Brands Group is a privately held Swiss company that owns and manages a portfolio of iconic fashion and lifestyle brands. Founded in 1998 with the acquisition of Devanlay, the group has evolved into a dynamic global player in premium clothing and accessories, with a commitment to creativity, sustainability, and long-term brand building.
Today, MF Brands Group includes five internationally recognized brands: Lacoste, GANT, Aigle, Tecnifibre, and until recently, The Kooples. With operations spanning more than 100 countries, the group supports its brands in their pursuit of innovation, cultural relevance, and responsible growth. Each brand is empowered to maintain its unique identity while benefiting from shared expertise, infrastructure, and global strategy under the Group’s stewardship.
Read Also : When HR “Produces Nothing”: A Response to Jennifer Sey’s Anti-HR Vision
The Fine Balance: Navigating Work, Life, and Mental Wellbeing
Mind the Leadership Gap – From Learning to Real-World Impact
How the Adecco Group is empowering its employees for the future of work
