Coty names Soraya Benchikh new CFO amid transformation

Harper Cole 08/24/2026

Coty Appoints Veteran Executive to Lead Financial Transformation

In a strategic move designed to propel future growth and operational efficiency, Coty has announced a significant leadership change, appointing Soraya Benchikh as the new Chief Financial Officer, effective September 1, 2026. This appointment is part of a broader effort by the beauty group to reshape its operating structure and leadership.

Benchikh steps into this pivotal role following the departure of Laurent Mercier, bringing a wealth of international consumer goods experience that is directly relevant to Coty‘s ambitious trajectory. Her background spans more than two decades in senior finance and operational roles across major global corporations, including British American Tobacco and Diageo.

Her career highlights include serving as the Chief Financial Officer for BAT and holding senior leadership positions across various international markets, demonstrating a proven ability to manage complex global operations and financial landscapes.

At Coty, Benchikh will join the Executive Committee, reporting directly to Executive Chairman and Interim CEO Markus Strobel. Her mandate will focus sharply on strengthening the company’s balance sheet and refining its capital allocation strategies to ensure sustained value creation.

This appointment coincides with Coty’s ongoing transformation, which includes a recent overhaul of its operating structure introduced in July. This restructuring was designed to bring commercial decision-making closer to individual markets and to streamline operations by integrating research and development and supply chain functions.

The infusion of Benchikh’s expertise is critical to this transformation. Her deep operational and financial knowledge will provide the necessary framework for Coty to execute its strategy, focusing on greater financial discipline and optimizing how capital is deployed across the business.

As the company moves toward a future defined by enhanced market responsiveness and streamlined efficiency, the focus on capital allocation and financial health will be central to navigating the next phase of growth for Coty.