"After 15 years of an exciting and passionate journey, which has recently reached new heights through the creation of a second watch fair in Geneva in collaboration with new partner brands, it is time for me to develop new projects," commented Fabienne Lupo. "I leave the Foundation knowing it is more sounder than ever before, thanks to the unwavering support of its founders and partner brands. Now installed in the city center in the Arcades des Arts, formerly known as the Pont de la Machine, the Foundation de la Haute Horlogerie organises thematic and cultural exhibitions to promote Fine Watchmaking. Watches & Wonders has become a truly global ecosystem, both physically and digitally, offering events around the world. Moreover and most importantly, Watches & Wonders is the reference in Fine Watchmaking fairs (previously SIHH) for the entire international watchmaking community (professionals, media, collectors and final clients), allowing Geneva to affirm its position as a cornerstone for Swiss watchmaking."
"The FHH sincerely thanks Fabienne Lupo for her 15 years of engagement, commending the remarkable work she has done to secure the endurance and development of the Foundation," states Emmanuel Perrin, on behalf of the FHH. "Fabienne has made Watches & Wonders the key meeting point for exceptional savoir-faire, creation, and innovation of the finest watchmakers. Throughout her tenure as President, Fabienne has made remarkable achievements. The Carré des Horlogers has brought together the best of independent watchmakers and workshops. Innovation has been given an even greater role with the SIHH Lab. SIHH Live has positioned the fair as the Think Tank of the profession. The digital transformation of the fair has accelerated with the launch of the watchesandwonders.com digital platform in a context marked by physical fair cancellations due to Covid-19. She has also planned the opening of the fair to the public with the creation of the Watches & Wonders ‘Geneva in the City’ program, a true festival of watchmaking in the heart of the city for all audiences, which should have taken place in April 2020. In doing so, Fabienne has continually promoted the culture and savoir-faire of Fine Watchmaking around the world through exhibitions, publications, forums, digital tools, and training programs developed by the FHH. We would also like to thank Fabienne for having created a strong and talented team that will continue to support the Foundation in its future developments."
Emmanuel Perrin, member of the Management Board of the FHH, will ensure the role of interim President and CEO, the functions previously held by Fabienne Lupo.
