Valérie Hermann named president of Ralph Lauren Luxury Collections

Ralph Lauren Corporation have announced the appointment of Valérie Hermann,

former CEO and president of Reed Krakoff, as president of Ralph Lauren Luxury Collections. She will begin her new role April 7. Prior to working at Reed Krakoff, Hermann was CEO of Yves Saint Laurent from 2005-2011 and has previously worked at LVMH and the Comité Colbert.

In this newly created role, Hermann will be responsible for strategy, merchandising, distribution and the overall expansion of the global luxury businesses, including women's and men's collection brands such as Purple and Black label, RRL, accessories as well as watches, eyewear, jewelry and fragrance. Hermann will be reporting directly to Ralph Lauren, chairman and CEO of Ralph Lauren Corporation and will join the office of the chairman.

Commented on the new appointment, Mr.Lauren said: “This is a very exciting moment for our Company. Luxury epitomizes the aspirational aesthetic of the Ralph Lauren brand, and we felt that it was time to capitalize on the success we have achieved by leveraging the collective strengths of our luxury portfolio and placing them under a single leader.” He adds that Hermann is an “exceptionally skilled executive” who will be able to combine the creative and commercial aspects of the luxury segment.

Hermann said: “It is with great excitement and pride that I am joining Ralph Lauren. I have always admired the extraordinary aura of the Ralph Lauren brand... I have tremendous respect for Mr. Lauren, and I am honored to join the and to have the opportunity to work with the incredible team he has assembled.”