Ferrari N.V. has announced a new CEO, 52-year old Benedetto Vigna, whose over-arching task is to accelerate its use of cutting-edge technologies.
Mr Vigna worked for STMicroelectronics as president of its profit-driving Analog, MEMS (Micro-electromechanical Systems) and Sensors Group. He was also a member of the ST Group’s Executive Committee.
He piloted a series of moves for STMicro into the world of automotive. In a release Ferrari cited his “26 years working at the heart of the semiconductor industry that is rapidly transforming the automotive sector”.
This hidden-but-vital side of the automotive supply chain underpins many of the modern technologies we take for granted. Underlining their importance, a semiconductor shortage is currently crippling vehicle output worldwide.
Mr. Vigna replaces Louis Camilleri who retired in December – reportedly to recover from a serious case of COVID-19.
Chairman John Elkann, who had been acting in the vacant role, said he was “delighted to welcome Benedetto Vigna as our new Ferrari CEO”.
“His deep understanding of the technologies driving much of the change in our industry, and his proven innovation, business-building and leadership skills, will further strengthen Ferrari and its unique story of passion and performance, in the exciting era ahead,” Mr Elkann added.
Mr Vigna graduated cum laude in physics from the University of Pisa and had worked for ST since 1995. According to an old company bio, he holds more than 200 patents on micro-machining, has authored numerous publications, and sits on the boards of several EU-funded programs.
“It’s a special honour to be joining Ferrari as its CEO and I do so with an equal sense of excitement and responsibility,” he said.
“Excitement at the great opportunities that are there to be captured. And with a profound sense of responsibility towards the extraordinary achievements and capabilities of the men and women of Ferrari, to all the company’s stakeholders and to everyone around the world for whom Ferrari is such a unique passion.”
In a release, Ferrari said its new CEO’s priority was “to ensure that Ferrari continues to build on its leadership position as the creator of the world’s most beautiful and technically advanced cars”.
Ferrari recently launched the plug-in hybrid SF90 Stradale, has its first electric car pencilled in for before 2025, and will launch the Purosangue SUV shortly.
