Runway to Business Ep.4: Benedetta Petruzzo, Italy’s youngest fashion finance prodigy
At under 40, the former CEO of Miu Miu is poised to lead Dior, having begun her career in investment banking before rising in fashion
She’s not yet 40, but she is already considered “one of the most promising young Italian managers” by many luxury experts and headhunters. We’re talking about Benedetta Petruzzo, who is set to become Managing Director at Christian Dior Couture as of 15 October.
Her appointment has taken the fashion world by surprise, especially following her success as the head of Miu Miu in recent years. However, upon closer inspection, her new role only confirms the rapid rise of this accomplished woman, who has also recently become a mother.
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How Benedetta Petruzzo Led Miu Miu to €1 Billion
Petruzzo joined the Prada Group in 2020 as General Manager of Miu Miu and became Chief Executive Officer of the brand in March 2023.
Under her leadership, and after the slowdown caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, the brand designed by Miuccia Prada began to experience exceptional growth, with each quarter outperforming the last. By the end of 2023, retail sales had surged by 89%.
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In the first half of the 2024 fiscal year, Miu Miu’s performance soared even higher, growing 93% year-on-year, “thanks to the growing enthusiasm of its community, fuelled by successful fashion shows and events.”
Miu Miu’s remarkable position is a testament to the successful strategy devised by Benedetta Petruzzo and her team, which focused on driving brand growth through omnichannel and market strategies, product mix, CRM, and communication – all while remaining true to the brand’s DNA and strong identity.
This mission was fully accomplished, as Miu Miu has consistently ranked as Lyst’s hottest brand. Analysts now expect the fashion house to reach revenues of €1 billion by the end of 2024. However, Petruzzo won’t be around to claim the accolades, as she will already be in Paris, leading Dior – a fashion house valued at €10 billion.
@vogueitalia #willemdafoe chiude lo show primavera/estate 2025 di #MiuMiu durante la #ParisFashionWeek #PFW #tiktokfashion ♬ suono originale - vogueitalia
A Look Back at Petruzzo’s Career
Before becoming one of the most respected female leaders in the fashion industry, Benedetta Petruzzo began her career in investment banking, focusing on analysis and consultancy.
She earned a degree in Business Administration and a Master of Science in Management. After starting her career in finance, she transitioned to management consulting at Bain & Company, where she worked for several years in the retail and luxury sectors.
Before joining the Prada Group, she held the position of Executive Vice President for North America at Kering Eyewear, where Petruzzo spent five years in key management roles.
Clementina Bianchi
Editor