American-born Mark Lee is president and chief executive of Gucci, the Italian powerhouse luxury brand owned by PPR (formerly Pinault-Printemps-Redoute). He is due to step down from this post Dec. 31, 2008.

Viewed as one of the industry’s most admired executives, Lee built his reputation as a strong merchant and leader during his 12-year tenure at Gucci, the largest brand in Gucci Group’s portfolio. As president and ceo, he grew the Gucci division’s revenues 46 percent and ramped up its presence in mainland China. Before taking the helm at Gucci, Lee led a radical overhaul of French fashion house Yves Saint Laurent, which is also part of the Gucci Group family.

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Lee was born in San Francisco and started his career in 1984, when he joined New York department store Saks Fifth Avenue as assistant buyer of European designer collections. He held positions at Giorgio Armani and Jil Sander America before joining Gucci in 1996 as worldwide director of ready-to-wear. In 1999, the 36-year-old Lee was named president and managing director of iconic brand Yves Saint Laurent. He returned to the Gucci division in 2004 as president and managing director, and added the ceo title less than one year later.

Described as “unassuming” – some even say “shy” – Lee is credited with the ability to balance reinvention with consistency that honors the heritage of prestigious luxury brands.