Longtime Bulgari Executive, Heir Francesco Trapani Dies at 68

MILAN – Industry entrepreneur and investor Francesco Trapanihas died, aged 68.

“It is with profound sadness that Bulgari mourn the passing of Francesco Trapani, a visionary leader and a key figure in the modern history of our maison,” stated the Bulgari house on Thursday.

He was the son of Lia Bulgari and the nephew of Gianni, Paolo, and Nicola Bulgari. Accordingly, continued the statement, he “inherited a profound passion for excellence, creativity, and innovation.

He was appointed chief executive officer of the Rome-based jeweler in 1984, helming it for three decades, “transforming Bulgari into one of the world’s most iconic luxury jewellery brands and establishing it as a global leader. With a bold, forward-looking vision, Francesco redefined the boundaries of the luxury world, expanding Bulgari’s international presence and elevating it into a symbol of Italian elegance and contemporary refinement. His strategic insight and relentless drive helped shape not only the future of our maison but also left a lasting mark on the entire luxury industry.”

Bulgari concluded the statement by expressing deep gratitude “for his extraordinary contributions, his unwavering dedication, and the lasting legacy he leaves behind. His spirit, ambition, and passion for beauty will continue to inspire us all. Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of working alongside him.”

In 2014 Trapani relinquished his operational role as president of LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton’s watches and jewelry division, becoming an adviser to chairman Bernard Arnault on jewelry. He had joined LVMH in 2011 after the French group acquired Bulgari for roughly $5.2 billion.

Trapani’s résumé also includes a stint as chairman of private equity firm Clessidra SGR, where he helped with the acquisition of the Roberto Cavalli brand in 2015, and as an investor in two Italian food companies; partering with Bluebell and becoming the main shareholder and chairman of VAM Investments, which together with Fondo Italiano d’Investimento, established Florence SpA.

Before the sale to LVMH, Trapani sat on the board of Tiffany & Co. as part of a deal with another activist investment firm, Jana Partners LLC.