Today Kering announced that Antonio Calce has been appointed as Chief Executive Officer of Sowind Group, effective immediately. He will report to Albert Bensoussan, CEO of Kering’s “Luxury – Watches & Jewelry” division.

As part of his new role, Calce will supervise the management of the brands Girard-Perregaux and Jeanrichard, both parts of the Sowind Group, as well as the Group’s manufacturing activities.

Calce replaces Michele Sofisti, who was named CEO in August 2011.

Commenting on the appointment of Calce, Bensoussan said: “I am delighted to welcome Antonio at Sowind and within the Kering group today. His extensive experience in the Haute Horlogerie and in the luxury watches sector and his deep knowledge of its industrial and commercial stakes, will allow him to fully support the brands’ growth on international markets”.

Calce started his career with the Richemont group in 1994 as head of the technical department of Manufacture Piaget, before moving to product management responsibilities. In 2001, he was appointed director of operations and product development for Panerai. In 2005, Calce moved on to Montres Corum, where he was appointed Vice President of Operations and Chief Executive Officer. Antonio Calce holds degrees in microtechnology and management studies.