In Conversation with Versace’s CIO: Valeria Breda on Innovation, Influence & Identity

Beyond The Tech

In this episode of Beyond the Tech, Bryan and Alex sit down with Valeria Breda, CIO of Versace, to explore her inspiring journey through the world of luxury fashion and technology. Valeria shares how her early days at Louis Vuitton, followed by senior roles at Kering (including Stella McCartney and Alexander McQueen), shaped her approach to leadership, innovation, and resilience in a dynamic industry.

Valeria opens up about the unique challenges of balancing brand autonomy with group-level strategy, while also reflecting on the deep passion embedded in Versace’s culture, the importance of breaking down silos, and what it means to lead with both authority and influence in a heritage brand undergoing transformation. The conversation explores the evolving role of technology as an enabler rather than a full-blooded disruptor, with Valeria speaking candidly about Versace’s enthusiastic embrace of AI and other digital innovations. She is clear, however, that while technology is playing a growing role in streamlining operations and driving innovation, it will not compromise or intrude upon the brand’s creative and design processes. Finally, she shares her personal leadership journey as a woman in tech, offering honest reflections and valuable advice for emerging female leaders and detailing how she built resilience and influence in a traditionally male-dominated industry.

Listeners will hear honest reflections on imposter syndrome, digital transformation, the convergence of retail and e-commerce, and what it really takes to lead change in a high-pressure, highly creative environment. Whether you're in fashion, tech, or leadership, this episode is packed with insights, strategy, and inspiration you won’t want to miss.