Is LVMH owner prepping son Alexandre Arnault to take over?

Alexandre Arnault, son of Billionaire LVMH owner Bernard Arnault, exits Tiffany for his new role as deputy CEO of the wine and spirits division of LVMH. As the Bernard children move up the ranks of the business in a recent reshuffling, we're closely observing to see who might take over from their 75-year-old father. 

32-year-old Alexandre Arnault will take up the role at Moët Hennessy in February after four years at New York-based jeweller Tiffany, which LVMH bought in 2021. Prior to this, he headed the luxury luggage brand Rimowa.

Alexandre Arnault took to X writing: "I’m excited to step into a new chapter within LVMH’s Wines & Spirits division, embracing this foundational part of our Group’s heritage. My heart, however, will forever remain a shade of Tiffany blue — these years have shaped the person and leader I am today."

Bernard Arnault has ensured all five of his children have roles within the group, which owns Louis Vuitton, Dior and Givenchy to name a few.

Recent appointments, such as Alexandre's, are being closely watched for indications of who might one day take over from their 75-year-old father.

Frédéric Arnault, along with Alexandre, also joined the board this year after he was appointed Chief Executive Officer of LVMH Watches, to drive the watchmaking category.

The pair followed in the footsteps of their two elder siblings. Delphine Arnault, who is 49 years old, became chairman and CEO of Christian Dior Couture in February last year. Antoine Arnault, who is 47 years old, is Head of Communications, Image and Environment for LVMH and Chairman and CEO of LVMH holding company Christian Dior SE. Jean, the youngest sibling, is still waiting on his seat.

These changes are part of a larger reshuffling at the group as the elder generation of the family business is stepping back from their high-flying roles.

The rejig comes as LVMH feels the brunt of a slowdown in the luxury sector. Last month it reported revenues of £50.8 billion (€60.8 billion) for the first nine months of 2024, down 2% on a reported basis.

LVMH said it remains "confident" and will continue to pursue its strategy focused on the development of its brands, driven by a "sustained policy of innovation and investment as well as by a constant quest for quality in its products, their desirability and their distribution".