The Ferrari Purosangue earned the prestigious Compasso d'Oro in 2024, marking another significant achievement for the man who has led the company's internal design development since January 2010. Flavio Manzoni transitioned from his architectural training in Florence to a career defined by shaping the visual identity of several major European automotive manufacturers, most notably in Maranello.
Architectural Education and Early Industry Experience
Born in Nuoro in 1965, Manzoni studied architecture at the University of Florence, where he specialized in industrial design. He joined Centro Stile Lancia in 1993, later managing the interior design for projects including the Lancia Dialogos and Maserati 3200 GT. In 1999, he moved to Barcelona to serve as Interior Design Director at SEAT, contributing to the development of the Altea, León, and several concept models before returning to Lancia as Design Director in 2001.
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Appointed Director of Design for Fiat and Lancia in 2004, he oversaw the creation of vehicles like the Fiat Grande Punto and the new Fiat 500. By 2006, he transitioned to the Volkswagen Group, where he later became artistic director for the group's northern brands, including Skoda, Bentley, and Bugatti. During this period, he developed the Up! concept and updated the Volkswagen Golf series.
Directing the Ferrari Style Center
As the first Chief Design Officer at Ferrari to lead an autonomous, internal Style Center, Manzoni oversaw the development of the F12berlinetta and the LaFerrari. He directed the design of a dedicated four-level facility at the Maranello production plant, which opened in 2018. His tenure has been marked by multiple Compasso d'Oro awards for models including the FXX K, Monza SP1, and the Purosangue. In 2024, the University of Florence conferred upon him an honorary degree in Design.
Fast facts
- Born: 1965, Nuoro, Italy
- Education: University of Florence
- Chief Design Officer, Ferrari: Since January 2010
- Notable Award: Compasso d'Oro 2014, 2016, 2020, 2024
- Hall of Fame Induction: Automobile Design Hall of Fame, 2011
- Honorary Degree: Modern Philology, University of Sassari, 2019
- Honorary Degree: Design, University of Florence, 2024
Questions readers ask
What is Flavio Manzoni's primary role at Ferrari?
He serves as the Chief Design Officer and oversees the internal Ferrari Style Center located in Maranello.
Which major awards has Manzoni received for his automotive designs?
He has received multiple Compasso d'Oro awards, including those for the F12berlinetta, FXX K, Monza SP1, and Purosangue, as well as a Red Dot Award for the Ferrari J50.
