PARIS — LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton said Pauline Brown is to step down as chairman of its North American arm, LVMH Inc.
Brown, who joined the group in 2012, is to resign by year-end “to pursue other opportunities,” the company said on Tuesday, noting that the executive would stay on board to “ensure a smooth transition with her successor.”
She is to be replaced by Anish Melwani, effective Jan. 4, 2016.
Melwani, who will be based in New York, has also been appointed chief executive officer of LVMH Inc., in charge of developing LVMH activities in the region.
“I am delighted to welcome Anish into our group,” said Bernard Arnault, chairman and ceo of LVMH. “North America is a strategic market for LVMH, with our brands witnessing strong performances. Anish will help us further accelerate growth and explore new development opportunities,” he added.
Antonio Belloni, LVMH Group managing director, thanked Brown “for her contributions to the group over the last three years. Under her watch, our business in the region has continued to develop, and our organization as well. She has been a precious coach to our local teams. We wish her the best in her future ventures.”
Melwani, who holds a bachelor’s degree in economics from Harvard University, joins the French luxury giant from McKinsey & Co., where he coheads the global strategy and corporate finance practice, working with clients across various industries.
At McKinsey since 1999, he has counseled senior executives of leading global companies on issues related to corporate strategy, M&A, alliances, portfolio management and organization, according to LVMH.
He has most recently advised leaders of public sector institutions in New York City.
Melawi is also a member of the Council on Foreign Relations and the Board of the United Way of New York.
