Control of the CIR Group was transferred to Rodolfo De Benedetti by his father, Carlo, in March 2013. This strategic transition placed him at the helm of a diversified holding entity alongside his brothers, Marco and Edoardo, following a career spent refining the corporate structure of the family business within the Italian industrial landscape.
Early Career and Education
Born in Turin in 1961, Rodolfo De Benedetti pursued his academic training in Switzerland. He earned a bachelor’s degree in political economics from the University of Geneva in 1982, followed by a law degree in 1985. His initial professional experience focused on international finance. From September 1985 until December 1986, he served as an assistant to the chief executive at LODH in Geneva. He subsequently moved to New York to work as an associate in the merchant banking sector at Shearson Lehman/American Express from January 1987 until January 1988.
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Upon returning to the family interests, he transitioned into managing the holding company COFIDE, serving as director of international affairs between January 1988 and March 1989. He later assumed the role of general manager for both COFIDE and the CIR Group during the early 1990s. His tenure involved a comprehensive restructuring effort designed to transform the CIR Group into a diversified entity. This portfolio now includes SOGEFI, an international automotive components manufacturer, and the publishing house Gruppo Editoriale L'Espresso. Additionally, the group operates KOS, a provider in the Italian private care-home sector.
Professional Governance and Directorships
Following his appointment as Chairman of the CIR Group and COFIDE in April 2013, De Benedetti maintained various board responsibilities. His past corporate governance roles include serving as an independent member of the board of directors for UCB from 2009 to 2012 and holding a seat on the board of Altin AG between 2001 and 2007. Since 2014, he has also been a shareholder and partner of the Geneva-based asset management firm Decalia. He remains involved with the Harvard Business School European Advisory Board and the European Round Table of Industrialists, both of which he joined in 2006.
Fast facts
- Born: 1961, Turin, Italy
- Education: University of Geneva, Political Economics (1982) and Law (1985)
- CIR Group Chairman: Since April 2013
- Previous Roles: General Manager of CIR Group and COFIDE
- Decalia Partner: Since 2014
- Spouse: Emmanuelle de Villepin
- Children: Neige, Alix, and Mita
Questions readers ask
What specific companies fall under the CIR Group umbrella?
The group maintains operations in automotive components through SOGEFI, media publishing via Gruppo Editoriale L'Espresso, and private healthcare through KOS.
When did Rodolfo De Benedetti assume formal control of the family business?
He was appointed Chairman of the CIR Group and COFIDE in April 2013, following a transfer of control from his father in March of that year.
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