Albert Bensoussan (pictured) has stepped down as chief executive officer of Kering’s watches and jewelry division after five years as its head, the company has confirmed.

At press time, there was no announcement of a replacement.

Kering’s watches and  jewelry division includes jewelry brands Boucheron, Pomellato, DoDo, and Qeelin and watch brands Ulysse Nardin and Girard-Perregaux.

“[Bensoussan] has decided to pursue a personal project outside of Kering,” said a company statement. “Kering thanks Albert warmly for his contribution over the last five years at the head of the watches and jewelry division.”

Bensoussan joined Kering in 2014, after several years as an independent consultant. He was the first head of its watches and jewelry division, which was created in 2014 after a company reorganization.

Before that, he worked with the LVMH Group for 16 years. From 2003 until 2010, he was a director of its flagship Louis Vuitton brand, where he helped launch its watch and high jewelry business unit. Prior to that, from 2000 to 2003, he served as marketing director for LVMH’s watches and jewelry division.

He was also president of Givenchy Couture in Japan from 1996 to 2000 and served as Cartier’s director of development for watches and jewelry from 1984 to 1994.

(Image via: LinkedIn)

Rob Bates

JCK News Director