Francesco Starace steered the transformation of the Enel Group as chief executive officer from 2014 until 2023. An engineer by training, he rose through international energy infrastructure roles before overseeing a massive industrial pivot toward renewable power production.
Early Career and Engineering Roots
Born in Rome in 1955, Francesco Starace pursued technical studies at the Polytechnic University of Milan, graduating in Nuclear Engineering in 1980. His early professional path began in 1981 at NIRA Ansaldo, where he served as a safety analyst for nuclear power plants. Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, he held managerial roles at SAE SADELMI and ABB, gaining exposure to industrial operations in Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Italy. By 1997, he served as CEO of ABB Combustion Engineering Italy, followed by a period as senior vice president of global sales at Alstom Power until 2000.
Twenty questions, eight minutes on the clock, and a percentile measured against everyone who has taken it. No sign-up.
Take the IQ test →Advancement within Enel
Starace joined Enel in 2000, initially directing Energy Management at Enel Produzione. He moved to the Business Power division between 2002 and 2005 before leading the Italian Market Division, which focused on deregulated gas and electricity services for private consumers. His profile shifted significantly in 2008 when he was appointed director of the Renewable Energy Division and CEO of Enel Green Power. Under his direction, the company scaled its reach across 16 countries, managing 750 plants that generated 29 billion kWh.
Strategic Leadership and International Recognition
Upon becoming CEO of Enel in 2014, Starace prioritized industrial restructuring, including plans to convert 23 thermal power plants within Italy. His mandate involved active participation in global initiatives, including the United Nations Global Compact and various G20 business advisory roles. He served as President of Eurelectric and co-chair of the European Clean Hydrogen Alliance’s roundtable on renewable production. His efforts earned numerous accolades, including the Order of Merit for Labour and the Order of the Aztec Eagle.
Fast facts
- Born: 1955, Rome
- Education: Nuclear Engineering, Polytechnic University of Milan
- Primary Employer: Enel
- CEO Term: 2014–2023
- Award: Order of Merit for Labour
- Award: Order of Friendship
- Professional Membership: Club of Rome
Questions readers ask
What was the focus of his tenure at Enel?
Starace concentrated on industrial conversion, shifting the group's focus toward renewable energy development and decommissioning older thermal power plants.
Did he receive international recognition for his work?
Yes, he received several state honors, including the Order of the Aztec Eagle from Mexico and the Order of Rio Branco from Brazil.
Achievements
- Order of Merit for Labour
- Order of Friendship
- Affiliated with Enel
