PARIS (Reuters). Kering (PA:) will announce a new creative director to head Bottega Veneta, the French luxury group said on Wednesday, announcing the surprise departure of Daniel Lee just three and a half years into a mandate to ignite the Italian label’s popularity with younger generations.

Kering stated that the decision was mutual but did not provide any further information on the timeline of the replacement.

This comes at a time when European luxury brands are experiencing strong sales recovery following the coronavirus epidemic. Kering is one of the largest players in the market and has moved past its pre-pandemic level.

Francois Henri Pinault, Kering chief executive officer and chairman Francois Henri Pinault said: “His (Lee) unique vision made the house’s heritage relevant for today & put it back in the center of the fashion industry.”

Central Saint Martins 35-year old graduate has been credited for elevating the brand’s profile. He is best known as a designer of woven leather products with popular accessories such soft leather handbags, slip on mules and other leather goods.

Bottega Veneta went to Detroit last month in celebration of the return of celebrity-packed fashion events.