Greetings,
We’ve all known Georges as IWC’s dynamic CEO –and indeed he’s really revitalized IWC with many exciting new models, factory expansion, marketing initiatives and other projects. He’s also done an especially good job in steering IWC through a very difficult economic environment.
Richemont has recently tapped Georges for some additional roles –he will serve as an advisor to two other Richemont watch companies: Baume Mercier and Roger Dubuis. He’s technically not “running” these companies but will help them develop and implement strategies given the current market conditions. In the instance of Dubuis, this makes particular sense since their CEO was Georges’ former right-hand man (and technically Chief Operating Officer) at IWC.
I’ve been assured that these roles don’t mean that Georges will be any less active at IWC. He still will be CEO and, especially for those on the inside, he’s an absolute hands-on manager in every respect. But I do guess that getting his attention –or even another interview on this forum— in the short term might be a little harder to achieve. ;)
At the same time, Jerome Lambert, who is CEO of Jaeger LeCoultre, will assume a similar consulting role with Lange & Söhne.
There are also rumors at Richemont as to who will succeed Norbert Platt, who is resigning as head of the fine watch group at Richemont. Some think that Georges' “move” relative to Baume Mercier and Dubuis is a foreshadowing that he’ll replace Norbert. Georges has denied it, and personally I’m not sure that will occur regardless. But –these are changing times in the industry. And for all watch companies there are challenges, which I personally consider to be opportunities. At least for the right executives.
Regards,
Michael
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