Audemars Piguet last week announced that its chief executive Philippe Merk has left the company with immediate effect, due to differences of opinion with its board of directors regarding the company’s strategy.
A statement from Audemars Piguet said Merk and the board had decided to “terminate their collaboration”. The company praised Merk’s work and accomplishments during the past few years and wished him future success.
Francois-Henry Bennahmias has now been nominated by the board to the position of general manager in the interim.
Bennahmias began his career at Audemars Piguet in 1996 and in 1997 he became assistant marketing and sales manager for Asia-Pacific and Europe.
In 1999 he was promoted to president and chief executive officer of Audemars Piguet in North America.
He was a driving force in developing the brand across the Atlantic.
Merk became president of Audemars in 2009.
