The May 1st resignation of the flamboyant Thierry Nataf as CEO of luxury watch brand Zenith, has left many in the industry questioning who will lead the Le Locle-based manufacture.  The answer is now clear: as of June 1, 2009 Jean-Frederic Dufour will take the helm.  Dufour's appointment was announced by Philippe Pascal, President of LVMH's Watches & Jewelry Business Group.  

Jean-Frederic Dufour possesses a diverse and impressive resume.  He has been involved with a variety of management, marketing and commercial operations within the Swatch Group, Ulysse Nardin, and Chopard.  At the latter firm, Mr. Dufour was responsible for product development since 2001.  He is a graduate of the University of Geneve, with a degree in Commercial and Industrial Sciences.  

Expressing confidence in LVMH's selection, Philippe Pascal stated, "Jean-Frederic Dufour joins us with deep experience in the watchmaking industry, which will come as a strong asset for pursuing the worldwide development of the Zenith Manufacture." In the period until June 1st, Valerie Lachaux, HR Director of LVMH Watches & Jewelry will serve as Zenith's interim Chief Executive Officer.

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