Ferrari fills top management with tech heavyweights

In the more than 80 years after its founding, Ferrari has made a name for itself among the ranks of the world’s most desirable cars, fueled by the legacy of its founder Enzo. Now, the company is looking to the future amid a changing automotive landscape. 

Looks like Ferrari is going throttle towards a future of innovation

The paradigm shift inside the Italian luxury automaker began with Benedetto Vigna, who took up the mantle of CEO in September 2021. Vigna brought his extensive expertise in the field of technology, with 26 years of his career spent at Switzerland-based STMicroelectronics, Europe’s biggest semiconductor manufacturer.  

He is now reorganizing Ferrari’s leadership structure with key appointments, placing leaders with equally formidable tech credentials to help Ferrari navigate an industry that is transitioning to electric vehicles. 

Ferrari veteran Gianmaria Fulgenzi, who has been on board since 2002 in various roles in product development, manufacturing, and supply chains, will now be Chief Product Development Officer. Ernesto Lasalandra has been appointed as Ferrari’s Chief Research & Development Officer, building on his previous role as STMicroelectronics Group Vice President R&D General Manager. Lasalandra will be assisted by R&D Head Philippe Krief, who has 35 years of experience in the automotive sector.       

The company's emphasis on tech kicked off with the appointment of new CEO Benedetto Vigna  

Silvia Gabrielli is now Chief Digital & Data Officer, on account of her tenure with Ferrari since 2019 apart from her stints at Microsoft and other global tech companies. The position of Chief Technologies & Infrastructure Officer goes to Davide Abate, who has been working with Ferrari since 2012 and previously served as its Head of Technologies.  

Angelo Pesci leads the appointments in the Purchasing & Quality division, joining Ferrari as Chief Purchasing & Quality Officer with over 20 years of experience at STMicroelectronics in Financial Planning as well as Supply Chain and Product Planning. Former Ferrari Head of Vehicle Andrea Antichi reports to the CEO as Chief Manufacturing Officer, having worked for the company since 2006.    

Will Ferrari cast aside combustion engines to forge a new legacy?

“We want to push the boundaries further in all areas by harnessing technology in a unique Ferrari way,” said Vigna. “Our new organization will enhance our agility, essential to seizing the opportunities ahead of us in this fast-evolving environment.”

With its reputation built on combustion engines, it would be interesting to see how Ferrari rises to the challenges of innovation as the industry shifts to electrified and self-driving cars.       

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