Brands
Dolce & Gabbana brings in ex-Gucci CEO Stefano Cantino as co-CEO
Luxury house shifts to dual leadership as it eyes lifestyle expansion
MILAN: Dolce & Gabbana has appointed Stefano Cantino as co-chief executive officer, marking a significant leadership shift as the Italian brand looks to evolve beyond fashion into a broader lifestyle business.
Cantino will share the top role with Alfonso Dolce, who has also taken on the position of chairman. The move formalises a dual leadership structure aimed at steering the company through its next phase of growth.
The appointment follows the earlier transition of co-founder Stefano Gabbana, who stepped down from management roles, including chairman, effective January 1, 2026. Gabbana will continue to focus solely on creative direction, alongside co-founder Domenico Dolce.
Cantino brings extensive luxury industry experience to the role. He most recently served as chief executive officer at Gucci, following a stint as deputy CEO. Prior to that, he spent nearly two decades at Prada Group in senior marketing and communications roles, and later held leadership responsibilities at Louis Vuitton.
The leadership overhaul comes at a pivotal moment for Dolce & Gabbana. The company is navigating a challenging luxury market while reportedly working to refinance debt of around €450 million. The shift to a co-CEO model signals a sharper focus on operational strength and global brand expansion.
By bringing in a seasoned executive with deep expertise in brand building and communications, the company is aiming to accelerate its transformation into a full-fledged lifestyle player, spanning categories beyond apparel.
As the luxury sector faces evolving consumer expectations and economic pressures, Dolce & Gabbana’s latest move suggests a clear intent to balance creative heritage with strategic reinvention.
