Puig has announced a significant evolution in its governance structure with the appointment of Jose Manuel Albesa as Chief Executive Officer with immediate effect. Marc Puig transitions to the role of Executive Chairman.
The move formalises the separation of the Chairman and CEO positions, in line with best practice for major listed companies. The decision follows a long-term strategic review led by the Board, supported by the Appointments and Remuneration Committee, Puig said.
Marc Puig, who previously held both positions, will work alongside Albesa to ensure alignment on long-term priorities. As Executive Chairman, Marc Puig will focus particularly on M&A strategy, senior appointments and safeguarding Puig’s family culture and values.
Albesa currently serves as Deputy CEO and President of Beauty and Fashion, with oversight of Puig’s global operations and business performance. Having joined the company in 1998, he has held a series of senior leadership roles spanning brand development, marketing and operations. According to Puig, he has been instrumental in the international expansion of the fragrance and fashion portfolio.
The appointment follows a formal succession planning process initiated more than a year ago, which included an assessment of both internal and external candidates. Albesa is also expected to be proposed as a member of the Board of Directors at Puig’s Annual General Meeting in May.
Albesa commented, “Becoming Chief Executive Officer of Puig is both a privilege and a responsibility, and I am extremely grateful for the trust the Puig family and the Puig Board of Directors have placed in me for this next chapter.
“The entrepreneurial spirit, values and creativity that underpin our company remain core to the future we will build together. I am also very proud to lead such an exceptional team whose talent, commitment and creativity are at the heart of everything we achieve.
“We are an agile, decisive business and experts in what we do. I believe there is still significant potential ahead. This next phase is about renewing our energy, sharpening our focus and building on what makes Puig distinctive and I look forward to continuing this journey together with Marc Puig and all of our teams.”
Marc Puig said: “This is an exciting time in Puig’s evolution, building on very strong foundations and growth to set the platform for the next stage of our development. With this important announcement, the Board of Puig opens a new chapter in the company’s governance.
“The separation of the roles of Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer is fully aligned with the highest standards of best practice for listed companies.
“I have worked closely with Jose Manuel for over 20 years and I have every confidence that his talent, leadership and vision make him ideally suited to become CEO of Puig. His deep understanding of our brands, our culture and the way we work will be crucial to drive our company forward.
“I remain fully committed to Puig as Executive Chairman and I am looking forward to continuing working with Jose Manuel in this new chapter of our company’s history.”
Puig has also announced several other leadership changes, including Miquel Angel Serra’s appointment as Chief Financial Officer, reporting directly to Albesa. He succeeds Joan Albiol, who has served in the role since 2009.
Serra previously held the position of Vice President, Corporate Controlling & Investor Relations, bringing extensive experience finance, performance management and capital markets to his new role.
Albiol will continue to serve Puig as Secretary to the Board of Directors, retaining responsibility for Legal and M&A functions and reporting to Marc Puig.
As reported, Felipe Grant was appointed President Global Travel Retail earlier this month. ✈
