LEF Events

From intimate breakfasts with industry leaders to panel discussions on trending topics and exclusive behind-the-scenes tours of luxury brands, LEF events offer a unique opportunity for executives, students, alumni, startups, and friends of LEF to immerse themselves in the world of luxury, network with industry professionals, and gain invaluable insights into the world of luxury.

See the list of upcoming LEF events and ways to register for them below.

Office Hours with LEF Team
Jan
28
to May 9

Office Hours with LEF Team

This is an exclusive opportunity for students to receive personalized guidance from LEF Director, Alessandra Baker, and LEF Program Manager, Leila Accad. They will offer 20-minute one-on-one sessions to discuss careers in the luxury industry, share insights, and provide tips for breaking into this competitive field.

They will be available during lunchtime at the LEF Office at Columbia Business School

Cancellation Policy:

  • If you can't make it to an event, you MUST cancel your event attendance RSVP 24 hours before the event time.

For no-shows:

  • First offense: your name will be added to our watch list

  • Second offense: You will be barred from attending future events

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Executive Workshop with Tiffany & Co.
Feb
21
to Mar 7

Executive Workshop with Tiffany & Co.

  • Location to be confirmed after enrollment (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

This series of executive programming is designed to address a narrow brand-specific topic or issue that a company is facing, allowing a small group of 15 select LEF students to participate in providing solutions and implementation strategies over three sessions.

This program will take place over three sessions:

  • Friday, February 21, from 9am – 2pm

  • Friday, February 28, from 9-10am

  • Friday, March 7, from 10am - 12pm

Registration for this program will open two weeks prior.

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RLG Conference
Feb
22

RLG Conference

The Magic of Luxury: How Brands Create Magic

Featuring:

  • Rick Corocran, GM of the Baccarat Hotel

  • Catherine Santos, Head of Personalization at Ferrari

  • Camille Bruc, VP of Omnichannel Customer Development and CRM at Hermès

  • Alessandra Baker, Director of LEF

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Alumni Executive Breakfast with Diane Mahady, President of Hermès Americas
Mar
7

Alumni Executive Breakfast with Diane Mahady, President of Hermès Americas

  • Midtown location to be confirmed after enrollment (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

These intimate breakfast sessions allow a limited number of alumni to have rare access to important figures in the luxury field and engage in informal and intimate dialogue with the Presidents and CEOs of leading luxury firms.

Cancellation Policy:

  1. If you can't make it to an event, you MUST cancel your event attendance RSVP 24 hours before the event time.

  2. For no-shows:

    a. First offense: your name will be added to our watch list

    b. Second offense: You will be barred from attending future events

If you’re an LEF Alum but you’re not part of the LEF Alumni Society, please sign up below to access this event and many more.

If you’re already a member of the LEF Alumni Society, please log in below to access this event and many more.

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Alumni Executive Breakfast with Claudia Kozma Kaplan, Chief Brand Officer, Raffles Hotel Group
Mar
12

Alumni Executive Breakfast with Claudia Kozma Kaplan, Chief Brand Officer, Raffles Hotel Group

  • Midtown location to be confirmed after enrollment (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

These intimate breakfast sessions allow a limited number of alumni to have rare access to important figures in the luxury field and engage in informal and intimate dialogue with the Presidents and CEOs of leading luxury firms.

Registration for this event will open two weeks prior.

  Cancellation Policy:

  1. If you can't make it to an event, you MUST cancel your event attendance RSVP 24 hours before the event time.

  2. For no-shows:

    a. First offense: your name will be added to our watch list

    b. Second offense: You will be barred from attending future events

If you’re an LEF Alum but you’re not part of the LEF Alumni Society, please sign up below to access this event and many more.

If you’re already a member of the LEF Alumni Society, please log in below to access this event and many more.

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Fireside Chat with Vanessa Clemendot, VP, Chief Supply Chain Officer at L’Oréal
Mar
25

Fireside Chat with Vanessa Clemendot, VP, Chief Supply Chain Officer at L’Oréal

These exchanges allow students and alumni to connect with current luxury leaders and receive insights from some of the most respected individuals in luxury.

Registration for this event will open two weeks prior.

If you’re an LEF Alum but you’re not part of the LEF Alumni Society, please sign up below to access this event and many more.

If you’re already a member of the LEF Alumni Society, please log in below to access this event and many more.

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Corporate Classroom with Ferrari
Apr
4

Corporate Classroom with Ferrari

This series of educational company tours allows a select group of 25 MBA candidates from Columbia Business School to spend the day at the New York headquarters of a leading luxury firm for a rare glimpse into the day-to-day operations behind the luxury sector’s most renowned brands.

Registration for this event will open two weeks prior.

Cancellation Policy:

  • If you can't make it to an event, you MUST cancel your event attendance RSVP 24 hours before the event time.

For no-shows:

  • First offense: your name will be added to our watch list

  • Second offense: You will be barred from attending future events

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Corporate Classroom with Lugano Diamonds
Apr
11

Corporate Classroom with Lugano Diamonds

This series of educational company tours allows a select group of 25 MBA candidates from Columbia Business School to spend the day at the New York headquarters of a leading luxury firm for a rare glimpse into the day-to-day operations behind the luxury sector’s most renowned brands.

Registration for this event will open two weeks prior.

Cancellation Policy:

  • If you can't make it to an event, you MUST cancel your event attendance RSVP 24 hours before the event time.

For no-shows:

  • First offense: your name will be added to our watch list

  • Second offense: You will be barred from attending future events

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Alumni Executive Breakfast with Pierre-Antoine Bollet, General Manager of Christofle
Apr
15

Alumni Executive Breakfast with Pierre-Antoine Bollet, General Manager of Christofle

  • Midtown location to be confirmed after enrollment (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

These intimate breakfast sessions allow a limited number of alumni to have rare access to important figures in the luxury field and engage in informal and intimate dialogue with the Presidents and CEOs of leading luxury firms.

Registration for this event will open two weeks prior.

  Cancellation Policy:

  1. If you can't make it to an event, you MUST cancel your event attendance RSVP 24 hours before the event time.

  2. For no-shows:

    a. First offense: your name will be added to our watch list

    b. Second offense: You will be barred from attending future events

If you’re an LEF Alum but you’re not part of the LEF Alumni Society, please sign up below to access this event and many more.

If you’re already a member of the LEF Alumni Society, please log in below to access this event and many more.

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Student Executive Breakfast
Apr
22

Student Executive Breakfast

  • Midtown location to be confirmed after enrollment (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

These intimate breakfast sessions allow a limited number of Columbia Business School MBA candidates committed to the luxury goods space to have rare access to important figures in the luxury field and engage in informal and intimate dialogue with the Presidents and CEOs of leading luxury firms.

Confirmed date and executive to be added once available.

Registration for this event will open two weeks prior for current students only.

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LEF’s 20th Anniversary Celebration
May
29

LEF’s 20th Anniversary Celebration

LEF is thrilled to celebrate 20 years as a leader in the luxury industry!

Join us for a day of enriching programming as we commemorate 20 years of innovation, collaboration, and excellence in luxury education. The event will feature thought-provoking discussions on the future of luxury, emerging markets, and the role of AI in retail, followed by networking opportunities, a luncheon, and an awards ceremony.

Honoring Robert B. Chavez: Executive Chairman of Hermès and Chairman Emeritus of LEF

Discussions featuring industry leaders, including (list in formation):

  • Joyce Green: Managing Director, CHANEL France; Chair, LEF Board of Directors

  • Costis Maglaras: Dean, Columbia Business School

  • Monisha Agrawal: Vice President, Global Marketing, Tiffany & Co. LEF Board of Directors, 20th Anniversary Co-Chair

  • Guillaume Tardy: President, Chief Lifestyle and Licensing Officer, Ralph Lauren, LEF Board of Directors, 20th Anniversary Co-Chair

Ticket Information:

  • Table: $20,000 (10 tickets per table. Includes access to the full day of programming)

  • Individual Ticket: $2,250 (Ticket includes access to the full day of programming)



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Student Executive Breakfast with Guillaume Tardy, President, Chief Lifestyle and Licensing Officer, Ralph Lauren
Feb
20

Student Executive Breakfast with Guillaume Tardy, President, Chief Lifestyle and Licensing Officer, Ralph Lauren

  • Midtown location to be confirmed after enrollment (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

This series of executive programming is designed to address a narrow brand-specific topic or issue that a company is facing, allowing a small group of 15 select LEF students to participate in providing solutions and implementation strategies.

Since joining Ralph Lauren in 2020, Guillaume has been instrumental in shaping the company’s lifestyle categories—spanning home, hospitality, watches, and jewelry—and overseeing global licensing partnerships. He also leads Ralph Lauren’s architecture and design studio and champions diversity as the sponsor of the Working Parents DE&I Community Group, driving sustainable growth and enhancing the brand’s global presence.

REGISTRATION FOR THIS EVENT IS NOW CLOSED.

Cancellation Policy:

  • If you can't make it to an event, you MUST cancel your event attendance RSVP 24 hours before the event time.

For no-shows:

First offense: your name will be added to our watch list

Second offense: You will be barred from attending future events

View Event →
Alumni Executive Breakfast with Carolyn Dawkins, Chief Marketing Officer at David Yurman
Dec
10

Alumni Executive Breakfast with Carolyn Dawkins, Chief Marketing Officer at David Yurman

These intimate breakfast sessions allow a limited number of alumni to have rare access to important figures in the luxury field and engage in informal and intimate dialogue with the Presidents and CEOs of leading luxury firms.


Carolyn Dawkins is the Chief Marketing Officer at David Yurman. In her role, she leads the strategic vision and execution of the brand's marketing efforts, encompassing digital marketing, creative initiatives, and e-commerce strategies. With over 20 years of experience across beauty, consumer goods, and technology sectors, Carolyn focuses on driving growth, innovation, and customer loyalty. She is dedicated to crafting engaging brand narratives that resonate with diverse audiences while fostering an inclusive and collaborative team culture.


If you’re an LEF Alum but you’re not part of the LEF Alumni Society, please sign up below to access this event and many more.

If you’re already a member of the LEF Alumni Society, please log in below to access this event and many more.

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Alumni Executive Breakfast with Matteo Torre, Ferrari President
Dec
5

Alumni Executive Breakfast with Matteo Torre, Ferrari President

These intimate breakfast sessions allow a limited number of alumni to have rare access to important figures in the luxury field and engage in informal and intimate dialogue with the Presidents and CEOs of leading luxury firms.

Matteo Torre is the President of Ferrari North America, overseeing the brand’s operations in one of its key markets. He has been with Ferrari for over two decades, holding leadership roles in Europe and Asia. Before taking on his current role in 2017, Torre served as President & CEO of Ferrari Greater China, where he successfully expanded the brand’s presence. Torre is known for his strategic vision and deep understanding of Ferrari’s heritage, driving growth while maintaining the brand’s exclusivity. His focus on enhancing customer experience and embracing innovation has solidified Ferrari’s position in the luxury automotive market.

Registration for this event will open two weeks prior.

If you’re an LEF Alum but you’re not part of the LEF Alumni Society, please sign up below to access this event and many more.

If you’re already a member of the LEF Alumni Society, please log in below to access this event and many more.

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Student Executive Breakfast with Lahnie Strange, Senior VP & Global GM at Bobbi Brown
Dec
4

Student Executive Breakfast with Lahnie Strange, Senior VP & Global GM at Bobbi Brown

These intimate breakfast sessions allow a limited number of Columbia Business School MBA candidates committed to the luxury goods space to have rare access to important figures in the luxury field and engage in informal and intimate dialogue with the Presidents and CEOs of leading luxury firms.

Lahnie Strange is the Senior Vice President and Global General Manager at Bobbi Brown Cosmetics, where she leads brand strategy, product innovation, and global growth initiatives. With over two decades in the beauty industry, Lahnie has held senior roles across The Estée Lauder Companies, including SVP/GM for Estée Lauder and Aerin Beauty in North America and SVP of Marketing for MAKE UP FOR EVER in the Americas. Her expertise spans omnichannel strategy, digital marketing, and product development, positioning her as a key driver in the brand's global market presence.

Registration for this event will open two weeks prior for current students only.

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Fireside Chat with Matthieu Garnier, CEO of Loro Piana
Dec
2

Fireside Chat with Matthieu Garnier, CEO of Loro Piana

These exchanges allow students and alumni to connect with current luxury leaders and receive insights from some of the most respected individuals in luxury.


Matthieu Garnier is the CEO of Loro Piana North America, where he oversees the brand’s strategy and operations in the region. He joined Loro Piana in 2020 as Vice President of Retail before being promoted to CEO in 2022. With over 15 years in luxury retail, Matthieu previously held leadership roles at Theory and Cartier, where he directed retail operations, sales performance, and strategic growth initiatives across North America, including the reopening of Cartier’s 5th Avenue flagship.

Registration for this event will open two weeks prior.

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Student Executive Breakfast with Nicolas Beckers, President & CEO of Remy Cointreau
Nov
12

Student Executive Breakfast with Nicolas Beckers, President & CEO of Remy Cointreau

These intimate breakfast sessions allow a limited number of alumni to have rare access to important figures in the luxury field and engage in informal and intimate dialogue with the Presidents and CEOs of leading luxury firms.

Nicolas Beckers is the President & CEO of Rémy Cointreau Americas, a position he has held since 2020. He brings extensive experience in the luxury wine and spirits industry, having previously served as the CEO of Rémy Cointreau China, where he oversaw operations across China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Macau. Prior to his time at Rémy Cointreau, Beckers held leadership roles at various luxury and consumer goods companies, demonstrating a consistent focus on brand growth and strategic market expansion​.

To register, please sign in to your LEF Student Account below or refer to the unique link sent by your school to register for an LEF Student account.

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Students’ Final Presentations
Oct
24

Students’ Final Presentations

The Students' Final Presentations is an annual LEF hallmark event where Columbia Business School MBA students from The Luxury Approach Master Class unveil their innovative solutions to the projects submitted by the participating companies. This unique gathering brings together students, LEF alumni, luxury executives, and press together to celebrate these great achievements.

Additionally, the LEF PhD Scholarship Awards are presented at this event. Launched in 2009, the LEF PhD Scholarship Awards provides annual scholarships to PhD students at Columbia Business School. The scholarships are awarded to students who exhibit an extraordinary level of leadership and innovation in their work, and whose accomplishments are a testament to their commitment and talent in their fields.


Registration for this event will open two weeks prior for the LEF Alumni Society and approved Friends of LEF.

If you would like to register as an LEF Alum or Friend of LEF, please click on the link below and become a member.

If you’re already an LEF Member, please log in below to access this event and many more.

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Student Lunch & Learn
Oct
1

Student Lunch & Learn

This lunchtime panel discussion provides Columbia Business School MBA students interested in retail and luxury with the rare opportunity to have an open dialogue with leading professionals and gain a better understanding of career paths and opportunities for MBA graduates in the retail and luxury industry.

Confirmed panelists to be added once available.

Registration for this event will open two weeks prior for current students only.

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Luxury Round Table
Sep
24

Luxury Round Table

REGISTRATION FOR THIS EVENT IS NOW CLOSED.

The Luxury Round Table is an annual panel discussion in which three to four industry leaders share their views on current trends and challenges facing the industry with fellow executives, an enthusiastic group of business students, alumni, and friends of LEF. The event targets an audience of approximately 80-100 and is designed to inspire the future business and creative leaders in luxury.

The topic of the discussion will be Beyond the Storefront: Innovative Partnerships in Luxury Retail, with panelists:

  • Allison Badea, General Manager of Giorgio Armani Beauty U.S.

  • Matthieu Garnier, CEO at Loro Piana North America

  • Laura Lendrum, CEO at Printemps Americas

Moderated by Timothee Memmi, VP, Head of Global Brand Marketing Menswear & Childrenswear at Ralph Lauren.

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Fireside Chat with Marjorie Condoris
Sep
11

Fireside Chat with Marjorie Condoris

REGISTRATION FOR THIS EVENT HAS CLOSED

Marjorie Condoris is the Paris Store Director at Louis Vuitton, overseeing operations and ensuring an unparalleled luxury shopping experience. Previously, she was the Merchandising Director for Men's Leather Goods & Travel at Louis Vuitton for over four years. Before joining Louis Vuitton, Marjorie held pivotal roles at Burberry and also brings strategic expertise from her tenure as a Strategy Consultant for luxury, fashion, and retail at the Boston Consulting Group.

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Emerging Luxury Workshop
Jul
22
to Aug 7

Emerging Luxury Workshop

This Emerging Luxury Workshop offers current students and alumni the opportunity to work with a luxury startup on a virtual project for one of LEF’s Emerging Luxury Brands, Silver & Riley.

 

Participants must be able to participate in ALL sessions:

  • Monday, July 22nd, 6:00 – 7:45pm EST, over Zoom

  • Wednesday, July 31st, 6:00 – 7:00pm EST, over Zoom

  • Wednesday, August 7th, 6:00 – 7:45pm EST, over Zoom

 

For more details, please refer to the brand overview and workshop guidelines.

Interested CBS students can apply for this opportunity by emailing their resume and a short cover letter explaining why they want to participate to laccad@luxuryeducationfoundation.org.

Interested alumni can register for this workshop by logging into their LEF Alumni account and visiting the event page OR by joining the LEF Alumni Society below.

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Executive Breakfast with Stuart Winston
Jul
18

Executive Breakfast with Stuart Winston

Stuart Winston is the Chief Experience Officer of Lugano Diamonds and Managing Director of Lugano Privé. He is responsible for curating brand and client experiences, leading philanthropic efforts, and cultivating global partnerships for both entities. 

With over 25 years of experience in marketing, branding, leadership, and luxury retail, Stuart’s career has been consistently dedicated to achieving the highest standards of excellence. Prior to assuming the role of Vice President of Sales & Marketing at Lugano in 2007, Stuart held positions at top luxury brands including Gucci, Jil Sander, Donna Karan, and The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company. Since joining Lugano, he has played an integral role in shaping and executing Lugano’s community-centric approach to business.

Stuart is the recipient of the Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award as a team leader. He also serves on numerous boards including The Barclay Theatre, Brook USA, and the National Symphony Orchestra. He is an Empresario Member of the Palm Beach Symphony and a Gold Leaf Member of Aspen Institute’s Society of Fellows. 

For LEF Alumni who would like to register for this event, log into your LEF Alumni account below OR sign up below to join the LEF Alumni Society and access this event and many more.

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Alumni Networking Event
May
30

Alumni Networking Event

Luxury Retail in 2024: From Awareness to Sales

Panelists:

  • Adrien de Bontin - Director, Omnichannel & Retail Systems, Louis Vuitton

  • Lauren Avriam - Senior Group Director, Client Intelligence, Fragrance & Beauté Division at CHANEL

  • Stephanie Williams - VP, Retention Marketing, Saks OFF 5TH

  • Monisha Agrawal - VP, Global Marketing, Tiffany & Co.

REGISTRATION FOR THIS EVENT IS NOW CLOSED

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Emerging Luxury Council NYC Reunion
May
29

Emerging Luxury Council NYC Reunion

The Emerging Luxury Council is focused on mentoring smaller luxury brands and startups with their continued growth and success. Through the Emerging Luxury Council, participating companies have access to a network of seasoned CEOs, the LEF Alumni network, and hallmark events.

This event is accessible only to our approved Emerging Luxury Council brands,

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