By Tassilo Hummel PARIS (Reuters) -Gucci design chief Sabato De Sarno is leaving the Italian flagship label after less than two years in the job, owner Kering said on Thursday, as the brand strives to attract wealthier shoppers and reverse its weak sales.

Kering’s flagship label Gucci ended its collaboration with creative director Sabato De Sarno as the brand faces weak demand and as the French group seeks to rejuvenate its fashion houses.

On Thursday, just as the fashion world was gathering in New York for its ready-to-wear shows, Gucci added yet more uncertainty to an already tumultuous industry by announcing that the designer Sabato De Sarno was leaving.