Arie Kopelman Obituary, Death: Former President and Chief Operating Officer of Chanel Dies at 86 in New York, Leaving Behind a Remarkable Legacy of Luxury Brand Transformation, Leadership, and Philanthropy—Beloved Father of Jill Kargman and Acclaimed Visionary of the Fashion Industry Succumbs to Pancreatic Cancer”
The world of luxury fashion and high-end retail is mourning the loss of Arie Kopelman, the former President and Chief Operating Officer of Chanel Inc., who passed away on Monday at the age of 86 after a battle with pancreatic cancer. Arie Kopelman was not only a celebrated figure in the fashion industry, where his leadership helped drive Chanel’s extraordinary growth, but also a beloved father, friend, and mentor to many. His death marks the end of an era for Chanel and the fashion world, as those who knew him remember a visionary leader whose charm, business acumen, and sense of humor left an indelible mark on one of the world’s most iconic luxury brands.
Arie’s daughter, Jill Kargman, broke the news of his passing on Instagram, sharing the heartbreaking update with her followers and stating that her father had passed away due to complications related to pancreatic cancer. The grief was palpable across the fashion and business sectors as tributes poured in from those who had worked with, admired, and been inspired by Arie. His long-standing leadership at Chanel helped build the French luxury house into the global powerhouse it is today, making his passing not just a personal loss to his family, but a significant moment for the fashion industry at large.
Kopelman’s death has brought forward a flood of memories and tributes from his colleagues, friends, and industry insiders. Known for his sharp wit and remarkable ability to humanize complex marketing strategies, Arie Kopelman was regarded as a transformative figure who helped Chanel navigate through changing times, all the while staying true to its heritage. His contributions to Chanel’s development were pivotal, making him an indispensable part of the brand’s long-term success. He was widely regarded as a brilliant strategist and marketer, whose understanding of both the art and science of retail helped shape modern luxury fashion as we know it.
Alain Wertheimer, Chanel’s global executive chairman, was among the first to offer a heartfelt tribute, recognizing the monumental role Kopelman played in the company’s history. In a statement released on Tuesday, Wertheimer said, “Arie was an exceptional leader and a great asset to Chanel, helping to build an incredibly strong foundation for the House. More importantly, he was a wonderful buddy with a great sense of humour who will be deeply missed.” These words reflect not only Arie’s professional contributions but also the personal relationships he cultivated over his decades-long career, a testament to his character and ability to forge meaningful connections with colleagues at every level.
Chanel also issued a statement expressing their profound sadness over Kopelman’s passing. In their tribute, they acknowledged his visionary leadership, which crafted an ambitious strategy for the brand, and his ability to mentor those around him, creating a one-of-a-kind culture at Chanel. “Arie was known for his charm and empathy, and he personified the attributes of a leader who was truly committed to mentoring people around him,” the statement read. The brand emphasized that Kopelman’s impact extended far beyond business; he was deeply involved in philanthropy, supporting various cultural and humanitarian causes, further cementing his legacy as a man who sought to make the world better in multiple ways.
Born on September 23, 1938, in Brookline, Massachusetts, Arie Kopelman’s path to becoming one of the most influential figures in fashion was both unconventional and inspiring. He attended the prestigious Boston Latin School and Williston Academy before enrolling at Johns Hopkins University, where he initially pursued pre-medicine but found his true passion in art history. His academic journey later took him to Columbia University, where he earned his MBA, setting the stage for what would become a storied career in marketing and retail.
Kopelman’s career began far from the glitzy world of haute couture. His first job was at Procter & Gamble, where he was tasked with marketing the iconic Ivory soap bar. It was here that he honed his marketing skills and developed an understanding of the power of branding. Kopelman’s work took him to Reno, Nevada, for six months, where he worked in sales as part of his training. This period was formative not just for his career, but also for his personal life. It was in Reno that Kopelman took flying lessons and, in a twist of fate, crossed paths with Bill Harrod of the famed Harrods Casino. During this time, he also dabbled in stand-up comedy—a passion that might have led him down an entirely different career path if not for his deepening interest in retail.
In a number of interviews, Kopelman expressed that he had once considered a career in entertainment, possibly as a comedian. His sharp wit, quick thinking, and innate sense of timing made him a natural at delivering punchlines, and those who knew him well often remarked on his talent for impersonations. One of his signature phrases was “Retail is in the detail, darling,” a line delivered with his characteristic charm and humor that became something of a mantra for him. His ability to infuse humor into even the most serious business discussions endeared him to colleagues and clients alike, helping to set him apart as not just a businessman, but as someone with an undeniable charisma.
Arie’s rise to prominence in the fashion world came when he joined Chanel Inc. in 1986. At that time, Chanel was already a storied brand, but it was under Kopelman’s leadership that the brand truly began to expand and evolve. Working closely with the Wertheimer family, owners of the Chanel brand, Kopelman took on the role of President and Chief Operating Officer, positions through which he helped solidify Chanel’s standing as a leader in the luxury fashion industry. His focus on blending Chanel’s rich history with modern marketing strategies was instrumental in expanding the brand’s reach, particularly in the United States, where Chanel saw tremendous growth under his leadership.
Kopelman’s business acumen was complemented by his deep appreciation for the artistic side of fashion. He understood that Chanel was not just a brand—it was a legacy, an institution steeped in history and creativity. He had a profound respect for the craftsmanship and artistry that went into every Chanel product, and he worked tirelessly to ensure that the brand maintained its high standards of excellence. His efforts were instrumental in turning Chanel into the powerhouse it remains today, one of the most recognized and respected luxury brands in the world.
Beyond the boardroom, Kopelman was deeply committed to philanthropy and community service. Throughout his career, he supported numerous cultural and humanitarian initiatives, believing that success in business came with the responsibility to give back. His philanthropic endeavors reflected his personal values and his desire to leave the world a better place. Whether through direct contributions or the leadership he provided to various charitable organizations, Kopelman’s influence extended well beyond the fashion world, impacting lives in ways that will continue to resonate for years to come.
As friends, family, and colleagues remember Arie Kopelman, they are reminded of the many roles he played throughout his life—business leader, mentor, father, husband, and friend. His daughter, Jill Kargman, who herself has made a name in the world of entertainment and literature, paid tribute to her father’s humor, wisdom, and boundless love. Her Instagram post announcing his passing was filled with love and sadness, offering a glimpse into the close bond they shared. The loss of Arie Kopelman is not just a loss to his family, but to the many lives he touched throughout his remarkable career.
The fashion world will long remember Arie Kopelman as a leader who shaped the trajectory of one of the most iconic brands in history. But to those who knew him personally, he will be remembered for much more than his business accomplishments. He will be remembered for his kindness, his humor, and his deep love for his family. His legacy will live on through the countless lives he influenced, both in business and beyond.
In the end, Arie Kopelman’s life was a testament to the power of leadership, creativity, and compassion. His contributions to Chanel, his philanthropic efforts, and the many relationships he cultivated throughout his life are a reflection of a man who understood that success is not measured solely by professional achievements, but by the impact one has on others. Though his passing is a great loss, his legacy will continue to inspire those who knew him and those who continue to benefit from his work.
