Firmenich looks to P&G for its new Perfumery chief

By

Sandra Halliday

Published
Feb 21, 2020

The world’s largest fragrance and flavours specialist, Firmenich, has announced that Armand de Villoutreys is to retire as President of its Perfumery and Ingredients business on June 30. He’ll be replaced by Ilaria Resta who was most recently at Procter & Gamble.

Part Italian and part Swiss, Resta will join on March 2 and will officially take over the Perfumery role on July 1, with the next few months seeing the outgoing and incoming execs working together for a smooth handover.

Resta has been Vice-President of North America Hair Care at consumer products giant Procter & Gamble, and therefore has “deep experience in the Beauty, Fabric and Home Care markets globally”. She actually spent 22 years at P&G. 

The Swiss company said “she brings an outstanding track record in delivering superior growth by building iconic brands, leading disruptive business models and developing a positive culture as well as winning teams”.

It also praised its outgoing Perfumery chief saying he’s had “a remarkable tenure of over 21 years with the company”.

CEO Gilbert Ghostine said he led the Perfumery business as it “deepened its strategic partnerships with our customers, while strengthening its innovation and creative signature. Loved by his teams, Armand relentlessly inspired them to win bigger for our customers. He leaves a strong and distinctive mark on the industry”.

Meanwhile Resta said she will “focus on continuously strengthening the group's leadership with the most loved and sustainable fragrances”.