Campari Group recently announced a significant reshuffling of its executive team, with CFO and COO Paolo Marchesini stepping down from his current role to become the vice chairman of the company’s board of directors. This move, described as a “consensual decision” by Campari, will see Francesco Mele taking over as the new chief financial officer in the fourth quarter of 2025.
Marchesini, who has been with the company since 1997, initially served as the group’s chief financial officer before expanding his responsibilities to include the chief financial and operating officer role, overseeing information technology and global supply chain functions. He will now transition into the vice chairman position until 2028.
Following Marchesini’s departure, his former position will be split, with Mele assuming responsibility for managing finance, global business services, and IT, while the global supply chain function will be overseen by group CEO Simon Hunt. Campari credited Marchesini for his integral role in driving both organic and external growth during his tenure.
Luca Garavoglia, chairman of Campari, expressed gratitude towards Marchesini for his dedication and contribution to the company’s success over the years. He welcomed Marchesini’s transition to a more strategic role on the board and commended his promotion to vice chairman.
Incoming CFO Mele brings a wealth of experience to the role, previously serving as the chief investment officer at CDP Cassa Depositi e Prestiti (CDP), Italy’s national promotional bank, and as CEO of CDP Equity, the investment holding arm of CDP. Marchesini expressed confidence in Mele’s abilities, noting his solid management skills and international experience.
In the first half of the year, Campari reported net sales of €1.53bn, marking a slight year-on-year increase. EBIT rose by 1.6% to €340.9m, though adjusted EBIT declined by 2.3% to €352m. The group’s net profit decreased by 6% to €206.4m. In a strategic move, Campari recently reached an agreement to sell assets, including the vermouth brand Cinzano, to Italian distiller Caffo Group 1915.
Last October, Campari revealed plans to cut costs and sell “non-core brands” to focus on its core priority brands, organized under four Houses of Brands – the House of Aperitifs, House of Whiskey and Rum, House of Tequila, and House of Cognac & Champagne.
The reshuffling of executives at Campari reflects the company’s commitment to strategic growth and operational excellence. As the organization continues to evolve under new leadership, the future looks promising for Campari Group and its portfolio of iconic brands.
