Global Blue Announces Changes to Its Executive Committee
Global Blue is making key leadership changes within its Executive Committee, ensuring continued growth and operational excellence across various regions. These changes come following the departure of Greg Gelhaus, Chief Operating Officer (COO) for APAC and Central Europe, who has played a crucial role in the company’s regional success. Greg will leave Global Blue on March 1, 2025, to pursue new opportunities.
Virginie Alem Appointed COO Japan
In addition to her responsibilities as Chief Marketing Officer (CMO), Virginie Alem has been appointed Chief Operating Officer for Japan. Virginie has been a key figure in shaping Global Blue’s commercial strategy, leading initiatives such as the company’s rebranding and its Customer Value Creation approach.
As COO Japan, Virginie will spearhead the transformation of Global Blue’s operations in the country, working closely with the local team to navigate upcoming regulatory changes. In 2026, Japan will transition from a VAT-Off model—where tax refunds are processed in-store—to a VAT-On model, requiring post-customs validation, similar to existing systems in Europe, Singapore, and Korea.
Virginie will lead efforts to integrate local systems with Global Blue’s global infrastructure, ensuring a smooth transition and effective collaboration between regional and international teams.
Gavin Ingram Appointed COO APAC (Excluding Japan)
Gavin Ingram, who has led the APAC Legal team for over a decade and played a pivotal role in Global Blue’s expansion into new markets, will now serve as Chief Operating Officer for APAC (excluding Japan).
In his new role, Gavin will oversee operations in South Korea, Singapore, and China, while also driving Global Blue’s expansion efforts across emerging APAC markets. His focus will be on strategic growth, aligning key regional initiatives with the company’s global vision. Effective March 1, 2025, Gavin will officially join the Executive Committee, further strengthening Global Blue’s leadership in the region.
Laurent Delmas Expands Responsibilities to Eastern Europe and the Middle East
Laurent Delmas, currently serving as COO for Southern Europe, will now take on an expanded leadership role to oversee Eastern European and Middle Eastern operations. With extensive experience in international management, Laurent will play a critical role in strengthening Global Blue’s presence in these key regions.
Under his expanded responsibilities, Laurent will manage operations in Austria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland, Serbia, Slovakia, and Switzerland. His leadership will ensure a seamless integration of these markets within Global Blue’s broader operational framework, fostering growth and innovation.
Strategic Leadership Transition
With these strategic executive changes, Global Blue is reinforcing its commitment to operational excellence, regional expansion, and enhanced leadership alignment. By leveraging the expertise of seasoned executives, the company is well-positioned to navigate regulatory changes, drive business growth, and optimize its global operations.
About Global Blue
Global Blue is a leading business partner for the shopping journey, providing advanced technology and services that enhance the retail experience and drive performance.
With over 40 years of expertise, Global Blue connects thousands of retailers, acquirers, and hotels with nearly 80 million consumers across 53 countries. Operating in three key industries—Tax Free Shopping, Payments, and Post-Purchase solutions—Global Blue continues to pioneer innovative solutions in the global retail sector.
The company employs over 2,000 professionals and reported €28 billion in Sales in Store and €422 million in revenue for the fiscal year 2023/24. Global Blue is publicly listed on the New York Stock Exchange.