In a significant move within the luxury watch industry, Jérôme Lambert is set to return as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Jaeger-LeCoultre.
This appointment marks a homecoming for Lambert, who previously led the Swiss watchmaking Maison from 2002 to 2013.
A Storied Career with Richemont
Jérôme Lambert’s association with the Richemont Group, Jaeger-LeCoultre’s parent company, spans over two decades. He began his journey with Jaeger-LeCoultre in 1996 as the brand’s financial controller and was promoted to Chief Financial Officer in 1999. In 2002, Lambert ascended to the role of CEO, steering the company through a period of innovation and growth until 2013. His tenure is credited with enhancing the brand’s reputation for technical prowess and design excellence.
After his initial departure from Jaeger-LeCoultre, Lambert took on the role of CEO at Montblanc, another Richemont brand, further broadening his leadership experience within the luxury sector. In 2018, he was appointed Chief Executive Officer of the Richemont Group, overseeing a portfolio of prestigious brands. In June 2024, Lambert transitioned to the position of Chief Operating Officer, with Nicolas Bos succeeding him as CEO of Richemont.
A Return to the Grande Maison
Lambert’s return to Jaeger-LeCoultre is seen as a strategic move to leverage his deep understanding of the brand and the broader watchmaking industry. Expressing his sentiments about the appointment, Lambert stated, “It is with profound honour and genuine pleasure that I return to the Grande Maison, the place where I first set foot into the magnificent world of Swiss watchmaking. This opportunity is both a privilege and a homecoming to the craft and heritage that have shaped my career.”
Leadership Transition
Lambert succeeds Catherine Rénier, who served as CEO of Jaeger-LeCoultre from 2018 to 2024. Rénier has been appointed CEO of Van Cleef & Arpels, another esteemed brand within the Richemont portfolio. This leadership transition is part of a broader restructuring within Richemont, which has seen several key executive movements in recent months.
Implications for Jaeger-LeCoultre
Lambert’s return is anticipated to reinforce Jaeger-LeCoultre’s position in the luxury watch market. His previous tenure was marked by significant product developments and a strengthening of the brand’s identity. Industry observers expect that Lambert’s leadership will continue to foster innovation while honouring the Maison’s rich heritage.
Broader Richemont Restructuring
Lambert’s appointment is part of a series of leadership changes within Richemont. Laurent Perves has been named CEO of Vacheron Constantin, effective January 1, 2025, succeeding Louis Ferla. Perves, who joined Vacheron Constantin in 2016, has been instrumental in elevating the brand’s global presence and commercial success.
