Anne de Vergeron has been involved in the luxury industry since joining LVMH in 2015, following a distinguished 16-year career in investment banking in London and Paris. As Group Director of Business Development, she has played a key role in acquisitions, including Maison Repossi, and has fostered the growth of various LVMH Maisons. In 2020, she was appointed Chairman and CEO of Maison Repossi. A graduate of ESCP Europe, Anne also serves on the boards of Editions Assouline, Thelios Eyewear, and Parfums Francis Kurkdjian, blending her business acumen with a passion for craftsmanship and innovation.
- What inspired your move from investment banking to the luxury industry, and how did your previous experience shape your approach at LVMH?
My transition from investment banking to the luxury industry was inspired by my deep involvement in the sector through my previous role. This experience provided me with a solid understanding of the underlying strategies and market dynamics specific to luxury brands. Both industries share similar values such as meticulous attention to detail, strategic foresight, and a strong focus on delivering exceptional value. This have allowed me to seamlessly integrate my analytical skills and strategic insights into my role at Repossi, enabling me to contribute effectively to the company’s growth and innovation.
- How do you approach balancing the heritage of the Maisons you oversee with the need for modern innovation in the luxury sector?
Balancing the rich heritage of the Maison with the need for modern innovation involves a careful and respectful approach. We ensure that any innovative efforts align with the brand’s DNA and uphold its historical values. Embracing modern innovation does not detract from our heritage; instead, it enhances our ability to create the highest quality pieces.
- What has been your most significant achievement as CEO President of Maison Repossi, and what are your aspirations for the brand’s future, particularly in the Middle East?
My most significant achievement as President of Repossi has been driving the brand’s geographic expansion, with a particular focus on the Middle East. We have successfully developed and implemented a new boutique design concept, starting with the reopening of our Dubai store last month and the opening of our Riyadh boutique in Kingdom Mall last week. We are also excited to announce the upcoming launch of our Abu Dhabi boutique. By prioritizing the Middle East for the rollout of our new retail design concept, we aim to solidify our presence in this dynamic market and create a unique luxury experience for our clients.
- As a board member of several LVMH Maisons, how do you ensure each brand maintains its unique identity while aligning with LVMH’s broader mission?
Our approach is to ensure that each brand maintains its unique identity and core values without compromise. We achieve this by deeply respecting and preserving the distinctive DNA of each Maison, while simultaneously leveraging the resources and strategic vision of LVMH to maximize their true potential. This balance allows each brand to thrive individually, contributing to the broader mission of LVMH by upholding excellence and innovation across the portfolio.
- What trends do you observe in the Saudi luxury market, and how do you see Maison Repossi and other LVMH brands resonating with this audience?
In the Saudi luxury market, we observe a deep appreciation for art, architecture, and traditional craftsmanship, which aligns perfectly with the core values of Repossi. The recent opening of the Museum of Diriyah Art Futures exemplifies this cultural affinity. Saudi consumers share our passion for artistic expression and the preservation of heritage, making our brand and other LVMH Maisons highly resonant with this audience. We see a strong potential for growth as we continue to engage with and cater to these sophisticated tastes, ensuring our offerings reflect both innovation and respect for tradition.
- How do you integrate sustainability into Maison Repossi’s operations while preserving its heritage and craftsmanship?
At Repossi, the integration of sustainability and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives into our operations is of paramount importance. We achieve this through a multifaceted approach.
Firstly, we are committed to the ethical sourcing of materials, ensuring that our gemstones and metals are responsibly obtained and fully certified.
Secondly, our production processes are manual; all our pieces are handcrafted in our historical ateliers in Italy, with whom we have been working for more than 50 years. By utilizing traditional craftsmanship techniques, we not only uphold our heritage but also reduce environmental impact.
Furthermore, Repossi launched The Chromatic Sapphire, a special collection created in collaboration with the Moyo Gem organization. Moyo Gem works with women artisanal miners from the Tanzania Women Miners Association (TAWOMA) to bring responsibly sourced gemstones from East Africa to the market. TAWOMA plays a key role by connecting with miners, organizing communities, co-delivering training, and advocating for their needs. The Chromatic Sapphire collection features unique Umba sapphires from the Umba Valley in Tanzania, showcasing a beautiful range of colors from slight grey and lilac to vibrant orange tones. Each sapphire is highlighted by our iconic Serti sur Vide designs.
To celebrate three years of this initiative and symbolize our commitment to diversity, equality, and inclusion, Repossi is honored to introduce the new Chromatic Sapphire collection in 2025 and name the pieces after the miners who found them.
Lastly, Repossi adheres to stringent certifications and standards, such as those set by the Responsible Jewelry Council (RJC) obtained in 2018 and we maintain transparency in our operations, keeping our customers informed about our sustainability efforts.
- What advice would you give to aspiring leaders looking to make an impact in the world of luxury?
My advice to aspiring leaders in the luxury industry is to cultivate a deep understanding and appreciation of the creativity, artistry and heritage that define true luxury. It is essential to balance respect for tradition with a forward-thinking mindset that embraces innovation and change. Develop a keen eye for detail and a commitment to excellence in every aspect of your work. Building strong relationships and fostering a collaborative environment will also be crucial to your success. Finally, stay authentic and passionate about your vision, as this will inspire others and drive meaningful impact in the world of luxury.
- How do you see the future of luxury evolving, and what role do you envision for LVMH in shaping this future?
While I cannot personally comment on the future direction of LVMH as a whole, I can share my vision for Maison Repossi. I believe that the future of luxury will be defined by a true sense of exclusivity and authenticity. As consumers increasingly seek unique and meaningful experiences, our focus at Repossi will be on maintaining our commitment to exceptional craftsmanship, contemporary design and avant garde vision, and the preservation of our heritage.