PARIS MATCH: Balenciaga has named Francesca Nardi its new global communications director, WWD has learned.
Kering confirmed the appointment, which reunites her with Balenciaga creative director Pierpaolo Piccioli, who spent most of his career at Valentino, much like Nardi.
Nardi logged nearly 17 years at Valentino in several senior roles, lastly as director of global brand communications. Before that, she spent three years as worldwide events director at Burberry, according to her LinkedIn page.
She studied at The American University of Paris and the American School of Milan.
At Balenciaga, it is understood Nardi is to collaborate closely with Piccioli and chief executive officer Gianfranco Gianangeli as she oversees and coordinates all communication activities.
Her remit spans across media relations, VIP and talent relations as well as major brand and corporate events as the house seeks to enhance its visibility, coherence and desirability.
Among key upcoming brand moments will be Piccioli’s sophomore runway show for Balenciaga, scheduled for March 7 during Paris Fashion Week.
Piccioli, who spent most of his fashion career plying romance, glamour and couture grandeur at Valentino, arrived at the creative helm of Balenciaga last July and has been paying homage to founder Cristóbal Balenciaga and his recent successors, too.
It is understood Nardi picks up some responsibilities previously handled by Ludivine Pont, who left her position as Balenciaga’s chief marketing officer last fall to become CEO of Officina Profumo-Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella.
