Maggie Henriquez, chief executive officer at Baccarat since 2022, is passing the crystal baton to Printemps executive Laurence Nicolas, who will take up the management helm of the French luxury firm in early 2025.
Probably best known as the longtime Dior executive who developed its fine jewelry and watch division, Nicolas has also worked at Cartier and Sotheby’s before becoming general manager of Printemps’ flagship Haussmann store in 2021. She is to take up her new role after Henriquez steps down at the end of February.
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No stranger to Baccarat, Nicolas has sat on the crystal-maker’s board of directors since 2018.
“Her expertise in leading global teams, strategic vision and profound understanding of the luxury market position Baccarat for a promising future of innovation and growth,” the company said in a statement Thursday.
Bryant Stone, chairman of Baccarat’s board, added: “Her extensive expertise and commitment to excellence will undoubtedly lead Baccarat toward new ambitions.”
Nicolas said she is “honored” to build on the foundation laid by Henriquez, whose parting project was enlisting French chef Alain Ducasse to reimagine Baccarat’s landmark town house on Place des États-Unis in Paris with a new decor, restaurant, bar and wine-tasting hub.
“Her leadership has set the stage for a bright and dynamic future, and I look forward to working closely with our talented teams to drive Baccarat to even greater heights,” Nicolas said.
Nicolas holds a degree from Neoma Business school, and started her career as a consultant.
Before Printemps, she served as executive vice president of Sotheby’s jewelry and watches activity. From 2001 until 2017, she was Christian Dior’s CEO of timepieces and fine jewelry. Before that, she worked at Cartier in various marketing and retail management roles.
Perhaps best known for her 13 years as president and CEO of Champagne house Krug, owned by LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton, Henriquez said she was “deeply thankful for the trust and support I have received throughout my tenure. My passion for Baccarat and its exceptional craftsmanship will remain unwavering,” she added.
Marking its 260th anniversary this year, Baccarat has enjoyed greater attention thanks to its prominent role in season four of Netflix series “Emily in Paris,” and a host of new lifestyle products, including a pet collection, a range of candles and lacquer and leather trays.
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