MILAN - Monday, May 23rd 2016 [ME NewsWire]

(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Gianni Versace S.p.A. announced today that Jonathan Akeroyd has been appointed Chief Executive Officer.

Mr. Akeroyd served as CEO of Alexander McQueen from 2004 until May 2016.

“We are delighted to welcome Jonathan Akeroyd as our new CEO,” said Donatella Versace, Vice President and Artistic Director. “Jonathan brings a proven track record in building global brands, steering growth and driving strategic development. Jonathan Akeroyd’s industry expertise and vision will be key to advancing the next phase of Versace’s development."

“It is an honor to be joining such a dynamic and innovative organization. Versace is an iconic lifestyle brand recognized globally as a premier name in luxury. I look forward to implementing a long-term business strategy that supports the visionary and creative direction of Donatella Versace and her team. This is an exciting opportunity to take Versace to even greater success,” said Jonathan Akeroyd.

While at Alexander McQueen, Jonathan successfully oversaw the growth and the international expansion of the brand, working with the creative and leadership teams during one of the Company’s most robust periods.

He succeeds Gian Giacomo Ferraris, who joined Versace in 2009 and led the Company during an important period of strong growth. “We are proud of our ability to attract visionary leaders," said Donatella Versace. “Mr. Ferraris has done a superb job of securing Versace’s status as one of the world’s leading luxury brands. We thank him for his efforts and wish him all the best for the future.”

Founded in 1978, Gianni Versace S.p.A. is one of the world’s leading fashion design houses. Under the Artistic Direction of Donatella Versace since 1997, Versace designs, manufactures, distributes and retails fashion and lifestyle products including haute couture, women’s and men’s ready-to-wear, jewelry, watches, accessories, fragrances and furniture. Versace products are available globally through prominent retailers and the Company’s growing network of over 180 Versace retail stores. Please visitwww.versace.com for additional information.

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Contacts

The Dilenschneider Group

Janet Bartucci, +1 212 922-0900 ext 112 / cell +1 917 297-0461

jbartucci@dgi-nyc.com

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