Kering Appoints Former Prada CEO at the Helm of Alexander McQueen

A leading figure in the luxury industry, Gianfranco D'Attis becomes the new CEO of Alexander McQueen, the group’s smallest fashion brand. He will start his new role on Wednesday, June 3, 2026.

The Italian executive brings more than 25 years of international experience in the luxury sector, with strong expertise in brand development, distribution network excellence, and customer relations in key markets. He most recently served as CEO at Prada and previously held executive positions at LVMH and Richemont.

The London-based fashion house has been led by Gianfilippo Testa since 2022.

“He brings a powerful combination of strategic vision, operational rigor, and deep expertise in the luxury sector,” explained Luca de Meo, CEO of Kering, in the press release issued on June 1. “His ability to refine the brand’s identity while ensuring disciplined execution will be essential to refocus Alexander McQueen and unlock its full potential. I am confident that, together with his teams, he will lead the House into this new phase of development.”

Acquired by Kering in 2001, the brand—which accounts for only about 5% of the luxury group’s revenue—is under pressure due to heavy losses. McQueen’s management indicated in October 2025 that it was considering cutting 55 positions at its London headquarters, where designs are created, representing 20% of its workforce.

In January 2026, the brand then announced a restructuring plan in Italy involving job cuts representing one-third of the total workforce and the reorganization of production processes to reduce costs.

Known for his extraordinary talent and mastery of provocation, British designer Alexander McQueen took his own life at the age of 40 in February 2010.

Subsequently, the brand went through a period of uncertainty. Then, Sarah Burton, who had been working alongside him since 1997, took over as creative director in September 2020, surprising the fashion world by enriching the spring collection with feminine details, refined embroidery, and unexpected materials. Her collections succeeded in attracting a female clientele that could finally fully identify with the brand.

In late September 2023, Sarah Burton stepped down, and the brand entrusted the creative direction to Seán McGirr. This transition divided fans and critics alike, marking the end of the famous Burton era. As a result, revenue saw a sharp decline. In early 2026, Kering reported that Alexander McQueen had seen a 60% drop in revenue over the previous three years. Seán McGirr was unable to maintain the creative momentum of his predecessor.