After a decade of growth, the luxury and fashion sectors have been hit hard by the coronavirus crisis, with lockdown measures aimed at curbing the spread of the disease leading to store closures around the world. This is the biggest threat to the £2.2 trillion sector since the 2008 financial crisis, with weak consumer confidence likely to hold back sales for several more months.
But there are positives, as the pandemic has forced long-awaited changes in an industry that has been slow to respond to environmental concerns and embrace digital technologies. Luxury industry leaders have their work cut out for them to weather the crisis, but they could be the pioneers of significant changes that will leave a lasting mark.
“We teach our students to be trailblazers: agile, flexible, and adaptable,” explains Michel Phan, director of the MSc in Luxury Management and Marketing at emlyon business school. “In this sector, you can't rest on your laurels.”
A Master of Science (MS or MSc) is a postgraduate academic degree awarded by universities in fields related to science, technology, engineering, mathematics, medicine, and certain social sciences. Typically requiring one to two years of full-time study, the degree combines advanced coursework with research, a thesis, or practical training, depending on the program. The MS emphasizes analytical skills, scientific methods, and subject-specific expertise, preparing graduates for professional careers, research roles, or further study at the doctoral level. Admission usually requires a bachelor’s degree in a related discipline, and some programs may include internships or lab-based projects. While an MS often focuses on technical and research-oriented subjects, it can also cover applied areas such as data science, psychology, economics, or public health. The Master of Science is internationally recognized, though requirements and degree structures vary by country. Overall, earning an MSc demonstrates specialized knowledge and advanced critical thinking, offering graduates a pathway to higher-level positions in industry, academia, or research.
Combine passion and strategic thinking to navigate sport, entertainment, and lifestyle industries
Since 2018, emlyon business school has been training the marketing experts of the future -- people who are capable of innovating in a digital ecosystem. Unique in Europe, the program includes a particularly valuable period of study/learning in the United States.
While the CEO may set the vision, it’s the Chief Operating Officer who brings that vision to life, one process, policy, and performance metric at a time. Often seen as the right hand of the president or board, the COO is responsible for orchestrating the company’s day-to-day operations with precision, focus, and authority. This role is not just about managing departments, it’s about building the operational backbone of a business.
With a deep understanding of strategy, data, people, and systems, the COO ensures that the firm’s resources are used effectively to deliver on key objectives. From driving technology adoption to resolving functional issues, this senior executive crafts policies, improves productivity, and streamlines workflows to enhance organizational outcomes.
It’s a position that demands extensive experience, critical thinking, and a sharp eye for improvement. If you're a candidate with strong administrative skills, a solid academic background, and the ability to lead cross-functional teams, the COO role could be your launchpad to the highest levels of executive leadership. Here's what it takes to step into this commanding, high-impact field.
MSc in Luxury Management & Marketing student & Digital innovator
Théodore Boillot
From his educational and working beginnings in hospitality, Théodore Boillot transitioned to the luxury and e-commerce sectors, bringing with him a strong understanding of customer experience and digital marketing. With an MSc in Luxury Management & Marketing from emlyon business school, he reflects on how he has navigated an ever-evolving industry and made an impact through strategic e-commerce initiatives.
Master in Strategy & Consulting
Gisele
Gisele joined the Master in Strategy & Consulting last September willing to develop the technical and business oriented skills required to succeed in the strategy and consulting fields. Find out more about why she chose emlyon business school and what she hopes to achieve from her time in the program.