Frédéric Arnault

Profile

Frédéric Arnault (born 10 November 1995) is a French businessman and the youngest son of Bernard Arnault, the Chairman and CEO of LVMH, the world’s largest luxury goods conglomerate. As of 2025, Frédéric serves as the CEO of Loro Piana, a prestigious Italian cashmere brand under the LVMH umbrella, and previously held the position of CEO of LVMH Watches, overseeing watchmakers such as TAG Heuer, Hublot, and Zenith. His career trajectory within the family business reflects a strategic grooming for leadership, with roles that combine technological innovation and luxury craftsmanship.

Biography

Frederic Arnault

Early Life and Education

Frédéric Bernard Jean Étienne Arnault was born in Neuilly-sur-Seine, France, to Bernard Arnault and his second wife, Canadian-born concert pianist Hélène Mercier. He is the fourth of five children in the Arnault family. Frédéric graduated from École Polytechnique, one of France’s most prestigious engineering schools, with a degree in applied mathematics and computer science. His academic background laid a strong foundation for his future ventures in technology and business.

Early Career

Before joining the family business, Frédéric gained experience through various internships and entrepreneurial ventures. He interned at McKinsey & Company and Facebook, where he honed his strategic and digital acumen. Additionally, he co-founded a mobile payment start-up, which was later acquired by BNP Paribas after 18 months. These experiences equipped him with a diverse skill set applicable to the evolving luxury market.

Entry into LVMH

In 2017, Frédéric joined LVMH, initially leading the connected technologies division. His role involved integrating digital innovations into traditional luxury offerings. Recognising the growing importance of smartwatches, he played a pivotal role in the development of TAG Heuer’s Connected Watch, positioning the brand as a leader in the luxury smartwatch segment. His success in this area led to his appointment as CEO of TAG Heuer in 2020, making him the youngest CEO in the luxury watch industry at the time.

Leadership at LVMH Watches

In January 2024, Frédéric was appointed CEO of LVMH Watches, a newly created role overseeing TAG Heuer, Hublot, and Zenith. Here, he reported to Stéphane Bianchi, CEO of LVMH Watches & Jewellery Division and ensured a strong and sustainable growth for the Watch Maisons. Under his leadership, the division focused on innovation and expansion, including the acquisition of Swiss clockmaker L’Épée 1839. Frédéric also strengthened LVMH’s presence in motorsport by securing a decade-long partnership with Formula 1, with TAG Heuer serving as the official timekeeper. These initiatives underscored his commitment to blending heritage with modernity in the luxury watch sector.

Transition to Loro Piana

In March 2025, Frédéric was named CEO of Loro Piana, effective June 2025. Loro Piana, known for its understated elegance and premium cashmere products, aligns with Frédéric’s vision of sustainable and discreet luxury. Here, he reports to Toni Belloni, Chairman LVMH Italy. In his new role, Frédéric will build on his passion for exceptional quality and his leadership skills to pursue Loro Piana to the highest level of excellence, while ensuring the Maison stays true to its unique savoir-faire.

“I had the opportunity to visit most of our industrial sites in the Valley of Valsesia, and Tuscany. It has been an incredible journey during which I have discovered and understood the unique and exceptional know how of the brand. I met a significant part of the team in our Headquarter in Milan, I visited some of our key markets such as Japan, China, the Middle East, the USA, and got a feeling of the exceptional quality of our network across the world,” he posted on LinkedIn about his leadership at Loro Piana. “After having gone through the showroom and buying session at Loro Piana, I can say with confidence that we are continuing to refine and elevate our silhouette, building on icons and always fixing our attention on our North Star, the use and cultivation of only the best and finest materials and textiles.”

Awards and Recognition

In 2025, Frédéric Arnault was honoured with the Guido Carli International Award, recognising his contributions to the luxury industry. The award ceremony, held at the Auditorium Parco della Musica in Rome, highlighted his innovative approach and leadership within LVMH. The Guido Carli Award is presented annually to individuals who have significantly impacted the global economy and business practices.

Frédéric’s appointment as managing director of Financière Agache in June 2024 further solidified his position within the LVMH hierarchy. Financière Agache is the family holding company controlling LVMH, and his leadership role indicates a deepening involvement in the group’s strategic direction. This move aligns with Bernard Arnault’s strategy to involve his children in key decision-making processes, ensuring a transition of leadership within the conglomerate.

Frédéric Arnault maintains a relatively low public profile compared to some of his siblings. However, he has been featured in media outlets, highlighting his professional achievements and personal interests. His appearances at industry events and collaborations with brands like Blackpink’s Lisa have attracted media attention, reflecting his influence in the business and cultural spheres.

References

• “Who Is Bernard Arnault’s Wife? All About Hélène Mercier”. People.
• “Louis Vuitton welcomes Jean Arnault, the French luxury dynasty’s youngest heir”. FashionNetwork.com.
• “Yet Another Arnault Steps Up”. The New York Times. 
• “The Newest Power Player in Luxury’s First Family”. The New York Times.
• “Meet Frédéric Arnault, the 26-year-old power player who was being groomed to become TAG Heuer CEO”. The Economic Times. 
• “Who Is Frederic Arnault? 10 Things You Need to Know About the LVMH Heir”. 
• “Interview: Tag Heuer CEO Frédéric Arnault on his strategy for the brand”. South China Morning Post. 
• “Frédéric Arnault to become CEO of LVMH Watches”. Financial Times. 
• “LVMH heir Frederic Arnault to head Loro Piana, exit watches division”. Reuters.
• Appointments at LVMH Watches & Jewelry Division LVMH