Rémy Cointreau seeks new CEO as Vallat resigns
Eric Vallat, CEO of Rémy Cointreau, will step down from the position this summer after more than five years at the helm of the French firm.
The chairwoman of Rémy Cointreau’s board of directors, Marie-Amélie de Leusse, announced that the board had ‘duly noted’ Vallat’s resignation, which comes after he decided to ‘dedicate himself to a new professional project’.
A selection process is already underway to appoint Vallat’s successor. The firm says it is looking for a person who will continue, with a fresh perspective, the group’s value-driven strategy, while building on the solid foundations established over the years.
De Leusse will oversee the transition period, ensuring the continuity of the group’s operations and the implementation of its strategic direction.
“On behalf of the board of directors, I would like to express our sincere gratitude to Eric for his commitment, leadership, and strategic vision,” De Leusse said.
“Over the past five years, marked by Covid, a period of exceptional growth, and more recently a volatile economic and geopolitical environment, Eric has successfully maintained the course of a long-term value-driven strategy.
“Under his leadership, the group implemented a portfolio strategy that enabled us to gain market share for our liqueurs and spirits division, develop an efficient and effective digital plan, and strengthen the transition to sustainable development. We wish him every success in his future endeavours.”
Vallat added: “It is with immense gratitude and deep emotion that I reflect on my journey at Rémy Cointreau. I will be leaving the group with the sense of having strengthened its foundations, and I am convinced that my future successor will be able to rely on strong brands to prepare for the recovery and give new momentum to our value strategy.
“My commitment will remain total until my official departure date to ensure a successful transition. I would like to warmly thank all the employees with whom I had the pleasure of working over the past five exciting years, the board of directors to whom I owe much, and the executive committee who supported me throughout my tenure.”
In January, Rémy Cointreau reported an organic sales drop of 17.8% in the first nine months of 2024-25, with a decline of 21.5% in the third quarter.
There have been changes at the top for a number of drinks firms so far this year, with one ex-Diageo executive joining Dropworks as CEO last month, and blended whisky brand Compass Box also naming a new leader.
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