A 1987 economics and business graduate of La Sapienza University, Pietro Salini entered the construction industry by joining the Salini Group, a company established during the 1930s. He subsequently spearheaded a series of strategic acquisitions and management shifts that fundamentally transformed the Italian construction sector, culminating in the creation and leadership of the multinational corporation known as Webuild.
Early Career and Corporate Expansion
Salini began his professional career at Salini Costruttori SpA in 1987, focusing on international growth strategies. By 1994, he held the position of chief executive officer at the firm. His influence in the Italian market expanded significantly in 2009 when he oversaw the acquisition of Todini Costruzioni Generali SpA, raising his ownership interest to 77.71%. This move positioned the Salini group as the third-largest construction entity in Italy, trailing only Astaldi and Impregilo.
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In 2011, Salini acquired a 15% stake in Impregilo SpA. Following a proxy battle and changes to the management board in July 2012, he was appointed CEO of Impregilo. A voluntary public tender offer in April 2013 resulted in the Salini Group securing a 92% interest in the firm, facilitating a formal merger. By 2014, he assumed the role of CEO for the newly formed Salini Impregilo group, later rebranded as Webuild. The organization maintains a portfolio exceeding 29 billion euros, operating in more than 50 countries and employing approximately 31,000 individuals.
Infrastructure Projects and Industry Governance
Salini has actively pursued large-scale infrastructure initiatives, notably the Strait of Messina Bridge. In April 2021, he held a press conference in Catania with Nello Musumeci, President of the Sicilian Region, announcing readiness to commence construction based on the 2013 approved project. He cited 4 billion euros in coverage for the primary structure, with plans to source the remaining 2 billion euros for connected infrastructure through private financing. Beyond his executive duties at Webuild, he serves as sole director of Pietro Salini & C. S.r.l., holds positions at Salini Simonpietro e C. S.a.p.A., and serves on the boards of Confindustria and Assonime.
Fast facts
- Born: 1959, Rome
- Citizenship: Italy
- Education: La Sapienza University, 1987
- Major Role: CEO of Webuild
- Honour: Cavaliere del Lavoro, 2013
- Award: Tiepolo Award, 2013
- Status: Honorary citizen of Genoa, 2021
Questions readers ask
What is Pietro Salini's primary professional focus?
He is an entrepreneur and business executive who manages large-scale construction and infrastructure development as the CEO of Webuild.
What major infrastructure project has Salini championed?
Salini has actively advocated for the construction of the Strait of Messina Bridge, proposing to utilize both existing project approvals and private financing.
Achievements
- Order of Merit for Labour
