Barbara Cirkva leaving Chanel

In today’s round of executive comings and goings, Barbara Cirkva, Division President of Fashion for Chanel, will be stepping down from her role in March 2016. Cirkva has spent 28 years at Chanel, and is one of the most highly respected fashion executives in the world. For years, she has helped Chanel maintain its status as one of the most iconic fashion houses in the world.

A search has already begun to find her successor, but, whoever they are will have some big designer heels to fill. Cirkva first joined Chanel in 1987 after working at Bloomingdale’s. She is considered the most instrumental force behind Chanel’s respectable presence in the United States. She came to Chanel when they first really start developing their business in the U.S., and oversaw the launch of Chanel’s watch and find jewelry business in America.

In regards to her departure from Chanel, Cirkva said in a statement, “My career at Chanel has been one of the most exceptional experiences of my professional and personal life. I want to thank all of the wonderful partners I have had over the years in the U.S., Paris and globally, and I look forward to working with them throughout the year.” She will surely be missed, and one can only that whoever her successor is can continue to elevate Chanel’s image.