Written on: October 15, 2020 by SprayTM
L’Oréal SA has promoted Deputy CEO Nicolas Hieronimus to CEO. Hieronimus, a 33-year company veteran, will take over on May 1, 2021 and will be the company’s sixth ever CEO. Current CEO Jean-Paul Agon, who turns the legal retirement age of 65 in July, will remain as Chairman. Agon held the CEO post for 15 years.
Jean Paul Agon
Hieronimus, joined the company in 1987 as Product Manager and oversaw various businesses, including the professional products and luxury units.
“Nicolas Hieronimus is an inspiring leader who has all the qualities required to be the CEO of L’Oréal,” said Agon in a statement. “His great sensitivity to the needs and expectations of consumers, his perfect understanding of the spirit of the times, his marketing experience of beauty in all channels, countries and categories, his intimate knowledge of the Group’s brands and his ability to unite and engage teams make him the best candidate to lead L’Oréal.”
Nicolas Hieronimus
Barbara Lavernos will assume the role of Deputy CEO on May 1. Lavernos was also recently appointed as President of Research, Innovation & Technologies, effective Feb. 1, 2021. She is currently serving as Executive VP, Chief Technologies & Operations Officer.
“Given her background, skills and personal qualities, Barbara Lavernos is perfectly equipped to take on the strategic role of Deputy CEO,” noted Agon. “With her appointment, Research is placed at the highest level of the Group, confirming its critical role for L’Oréal.”
Barbara Lavernos
Antoine Vanlaeys, current Operations Director for the Asia-Pacific Zone, will assume Lavernos’ role as COO.
