Leadership in Perspective: An Evening with Laurence Nicolas, Global CEO of Baccarat

On September 15, Baccarat will welcome the French-American Chamber of Commerce and its Women in Business community to Baccarat Hotel New York for an intimate cocktail reception celebrating connection, leadership, and the power of women supporting women. Hosted by Laurence Nicolas, Global CEO of Baccarat, the evening will bring together a select group for conversation and conviviality as Laurence shares reflections from her journey as a woman in French luxury and the importance of mentorship, solidarity, and championing one another in the workplace. Rooted in French savoir-faire and a shared commitment to meaningful connection, the evening will celebrate the strength of community. 

Laurence Nicolas, CEO of Baccarat – Biography.

A seasoned professional in the luxury industry, Laurence Nicolas has held executive positions at iconic Maisons such as Cartier, Dior, Sotheby’s, and Le Printemps. A specialist in product development, retail, marketing, and CRM, she has proven expertise in leading international teams and driving organizational transformation.

Born in Madagascar and raised in sub-Saharan Africa, she pursued her studies at Neoma Business School before beginning her career in financial auditing at PwC in 1985, then in Mergers & Acquisitions and Internal Audit at Capgemini.

She subsequently joined Cartier, where she progressed through strategic leadership roles over 11 years, including Vice President of Supply Chain France and Vice President of Marketing & Merchandising in the United States. She later managed Cartier’s prestigious flagship boutique at 13 Rue de la Paix before becoming International Director of Retail Operations & CRM.

In 2001, her career took a pivotal turn when she joined Christian Dior, where she founded and developed the Timepieces & Jewelry division as CEO, a role she held for 17 years.

In 2018, she became Executive Vice President at Sotheby’s, overseeing its global jewelry and watch auction business.

Appointed Managing Director of Le Printemps Haussmann in 2021, she led extensive transformation projects at the department store for nearly 4 years.

In 2025, she took the helm of Baccarat as CEO after serving six years on its Board of Directors.