Groupe Rocher vet Jean-David Schwartz takes over as Arbonne CEO

By

Robin Driver

Published
Jun 30, 2018

US-based botanical personal care company Arbonne International, LLC has announced the appointment of new CEO Jean-David Schwartz, who joins the brand from French parent company Groupe Rocher. 

Schwartz has over 15 years of experience in the industry, and most recently served as CEO of Yves Rocher North America. Prior to this he worked as general manager at Tridem Pharma from 2011 to 2015, having already spent some nine years in different leadership roles at Groupe Rocher. 

Arbonne was acquired by Groupe Rocher in March of this year as part of the French company's strategy to push its international growth.

"I was pleased to be the key liaison during the Groupe Rocher acquisition of Arbonne earlier this year. All of us at Groupe Rocher have been very impressed with the amazing Arbonne culture and community," said Schwartz in a release. "I am now excited to lead a new journey at Arbonne, to work to evolve and expand the brand, and ensure that the next stage is the best one yet."

Schwartz will replace Kay Zanotti who is leaving Arbonne after nine years as CEO in order to spend more time with her family. During Zanotti's tenure, Arbonne experienced some of its most successful years since its foundation in 1980.

As well as Schwartz, Groupe Rocher executives Astrid Van Ruymbeke and Vincent Taglioni will also be joining Arbonne, as chief financial officer and VP, operations, respectively. Van Ruymbeke will succeed retired Arbonne CFO Gretchen Price, while Taglioni will replace the company's former COO Glenn Klages, who has resigned. 

No plans have been announced to move Arbonne's corporate HQ from its current location in Irvine California.