Holding 53.37% of the Italia Independent Group, Lapo Elkann established a career defined by luxury branding and automotive design. Born in New York City in 1977, he spent his formative years navigating the intricate landscape of the Agnelli family business empire while simultaneously carving out a distinct identity within the Italian industrial sector through independent creative ventures.
Early Professional Trajectory
Before leading his own firms, Elkann followed the traditional path set for Agnelli descendants. In 1994, he worked on the assembly line at Piaggio in Pontedera under the alias Lapo Rossi, even participating in labor strikes. Later, he served as a personal assistant to Henry Kissinger in 2001 and held positions at Salomon Smith Barney, Danone, Ferrari, and Maserati before joining Fiat as director of marketing in 2003.
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At Fiat, Elkann focused on reinvigorating the brand for a younger demographic. His tenure included the launch of the Fiat Grande Punto and the worldwide introduction of the new Fiat 500. He leveraged corporate communication strategies, including the use of branded merchandise, to boost the group's profile. He resigned from his Fiat roles in 2005 following well-publicized personal difficulties.
Independent Business Ventures
Returning to professional life in 2007, he co-founded Italia Independent alongside Andrea Tessitore and Giovanni Accongiagioco, focusing on customizable luxury accessories. The company debuted carbon fibre eyewear at Pitti Men. He also launched the creative agency Independent Ideas and established Garage Italia Customs. His business expansion included a 2013 listing of Italia Independent on the Milan Stock Exchange.
Collaborations and Recognition
Elkann facilitated several high-profile design collaborations, such as the 500 by Gucci project in 2011. That same year, he received the America Award from the Italy–USA Foundation. By December 2011, he partnered with Luca Cordero di Montezemolo to create the Ferrari Tailor Made project. In 2013, he earned the Automotive Hall of Fame’s Young Leader & Excellence Award.
Fast facts
- Born: 1977, New York City
- Citizenship: United States
- Primary business: Italia Independent Group
- Education: European Business School London; Lycée Charlemagne
- Languages: French, Italian, English
- Military service: Alpine Brigade Taurinense
- Roles: Entrepreneur, businessperson, socialite
- Ferrari N.V. board member
Questions readers ask
What is Italia Independent?
It is a company founded by Elkann in 2007 that specializes in luxury eyewear, accessories, and clothing with a focus on product customization.
What role did Elkann play at Fiat?
He served as the director of marketing and oversaw brand promotion for Fiat, Alfa Romeo, and Lancia, including the launch of the Fiat 500.
Achievements
- Educated at European Business School London and Lycée Charlemagne
