French luxury group Kering has announced the appointment of three new directors, including renowned British actress and activist Emma Watson. Joining the Kering Board of Directors alongside Jean Liu, president of the mobile transportation app DiDi Chuxing, and Tidjane Thiam, former CEO of Credit Suisse and Special Envoy of the African Union for Covid-19, Watson has also been appointed Chair of the Sustainability Committee.
In a press release on June 16, Kering highlighted the valuable contributions that these new directors will bring to the Board. Their diverse and complementary experiences and skills are expected to enrich the quality of the Board’s work.
Emma Watson made a name for herself through her iconic portrayal of Hermione Granger in the film adaptation of the “Harry Potter” series. At just 30 years old, she holds a degree in English literature from Brown University. Beyond her successful acting career, Watson has been actively involved in various charitable endeavors. She launched the “HeForShe” initiative, which focuses on achieving gender equality, as well as the feminist book club “Our Shared Shelf”. She is also a member of the steering committee for the Time’s Up movement and initiated the “UK Justice and Equality Fund” to combat harassment and violence against women.
François-Henri Pinault, Chairman and CEO of Kering, expressed his delight at welcoming Jean Liu, Tidjane Thiam, and Emma Watson to the Board of Directors. He acknowledged their knowledge, competence, and diverse backgrounds, underscoring their value in shaping the future of Kering. Pinault emphasized the importance of collective intelligence derived from a diversity of perspectives and experiences, affirming that he is proud to have such impressive talents on the team.
As a leading player in the luxury goods industry, Kering owns prestigious brands such as Gucci, Saint Laurent, Balenciaga, and Bottega Veneta. With the addition of Emma Watson and the other new directors, the Board aims to leverage their expertise to shape the strategic directions of the group.
Emma Watson’s appointment to the Kering Board of Directors not only highlights her successful entertainment career, but also underscores her commitment to social and environmental causes. As Chair of the Sustainability Committee, Watson will contribute to Kering’s ongoing efforts to promote sustainable practices and corporate social responsibility within the luxury sector.
This move by Kering reflects a broader trend within the industry, as luxury brands increasingly recognize the importance of incorporating diversity, sustainability, and social responsibility into their business strategies. By leveraging Emma Watson’s influence and activism, Kering aims to position itself as a leader in these areas and set an example for the industry as a whole.
Useful links:
1. [Emma Watson’s HeForShe initiative](https://www.heforshe.org/){target=”_blank”}
2. [Kering’s sustainability initiatives](https://www.kering.com/sustainability){target=”_blank”}
