Since 1985, Francesco has been part of the Italian and European fashion and luxury community.

 

Starting with brands such as Genny and Byblos, roaring stars of the '80s, he joined Giorgio Armani in 1991 and Gucci in 1997, covering several positions from business development to general management.

 

During these years, he pioneered business development in China, Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and Japan. He developed strong expertise in luxury retail networks, opening nearly 500 stores and shop-in-shops across all regions.

 

In 1996, he ventured into digital retail and successfully launched the first digital stores for Armani.com and Gucci.com (2005).

 

He then moved to France, investing in and relaunching the label Vilebrequin. From 2012, he served as Deputy COO at the Italian unicorn Yoox-Net-a-Porter, a European giant in digital luxury.

 

From 2018 to 2022, he served as Director and Catalyst at Style Capital Sgr, Italy's first and largest luxury Private Equity firm.

 

Since 2023:

- He established his "business unusual" venture, Espectia, where he guides omnichannel clients in luxury, including retailers, digital firms, and luxury brands

- He collaborates with several consulting firms and operates as an investor in venture capital

- He serves as a columnist for various Italian economic newspapers and magazines

- He works as an advisor for Il Sole 24 Ore Business

 

He has worked across all channels, regions, and luxury categories throughout his four-decade career. His extensive experience makes him one of the most seasoned leaders in the fashion and luxury arena.

 

Industry peers recognize him as a pioneer in new transactions and business models. With 39 years of experience, emerging talent, and established retailers consider him one of the most knowledgeable omnichannel experts in the luxury sector.

 

Key achievements:

- 500 stores launched

- 200 e-commerce sites developed

- Board member of over 20 companies

- 3 x Ceo 

- Former President of the National Italian Luxury Retail Federation 

- Mentored and developed over 100 industry executives (20 + CEOs) 

- Involvement with three listed companies (Gucci- Giglio.com- Ferragamo-Yoox) 

- Participated in 12 M&A transactions

 

In a few words, Francesco Tombolini is one of the most experienced managers in the so-called luxury arena. Fashion educated not contaminated. A real pioneer and always inspired.

​

Key Achievements:

- 500 stores launched

- 200 e-commerce sites developed

- Board member of over 20 companies

- 3 x Ceo 

- Former President of the National Italian Luxury Retail Federation 

- Mentored and developed over 100 industry executives (20 + CEOs) 

- Involvement with three listed companies (Gucci- Giglio.com- Ferragamo-Yoox) 

- Participated in 12 M&A transactions

 

In a few words, Francesco Tombolini is one of the most experienced managers in the so-called luxury arena. Fashion educated not contaminated. A real pioneer and always inspired.

​

COMPANIES FRANCESCO'S COLLABORATES 

• Genny 

• Christian Lacroix 

• Complice

• Byblos 

• Giorgio Armani 

• Emporio Armani 

• Armani Exchange 

• Gucci 

• Emanuel Ungaro 

• Ferragamo 

• Vilebrequin 

• MC2 Saint Barth 

• Golden Goose 

• Zimmermann 

• MSGM

• Shopify 

• Alexander Wang

• Ralph Lauren 

• Luisa Via Roma 

• Ann Demeulemeister 

• Fabiana Filippi 

• D Squared 2 

• Margiela 

• Cavalli 

• Bonpoint 

• Emanuel Ungaro 

• Lanvin Group 

• Bikkembergs

• Tom Ford