SHERIDAN, WYOMING – Jan. 17, 2025 – Giovanna Vitelli, Chair of the Azimut|Benetti Group, has been named the National Winner of the 27th annual EY Entrepreneur of the Year® Award. This prestigious award recognizes Italian entrepreneurs who have made significant contributions to the country's economic, social, and environmental growth.
Vitelli's Leadership Drives Innovation and Sustainability
The independent jury, composed of leaders from various institutions, economic sectors, and industries, recognized Vitelli for her outstanding leadership in guiding the Azimut|Benetti Group to new heights of success. The jury commended her for "not only directing the company towards growth in size and profitability, but also for inspiring technological advancements and projects focused on sustainability, employee well-being and corporate social responsibility.”
Vitelli, who assumed the role of Chair in 2023, has been instrumental in driving innovation and sustainability within the company. After practicing corporate law, she joined the Board of Directors of the family-owned Azimut|Benetti Group in 2000, progressively taking on leadership in product development. Under her guidance, the Group has achieved remarkable financial success, closing the latest financial year with 1.3 billion euros of revenue, a 55% growth over the last four years.
A Legacy of Excellence in the Yachting Industry
The Azimut|Benetti Group has been the world's leading manufacturer of mega yachts for 24 consecutive years. Vitelli's leadership builds upon the mission and values established by her father, the company's founder. She believes that continuous investment in innovation is crucial for maintaining the Group's leadership position and generating value for its employees and the community.
Redefining Onboard Lifestyle and Sustainability
Vitelli has spearheaded a strategy that focuses on creating new trends in onboard lifestyles while also prioritizing environmental sustainability. She has encouraged the company's technical offices and designers to rethink onboard spaces, offering yacht owners a more contemporary lifestyle that emphasizes conviviality, elegance, and a close connection to the sea. Examples of this innovative approach include Benetti's Oasis Deck® and Azimut's Seadeck Series, both of which have achieved significant market success.
In the realm of sustainability, the Group's strategy combines a pragmatic approach with an ambitious vision. This involves implementing the most effective solutions available for emissions reduction, such as weight reduction, high-efficiency hulls, hybrid propulsion systems, and onboard power management. The Group also collaborates with independent organizations and universities to promote the establishment of certification standards for consumption and emissions, aiming to guide the yachting industry towards a more environmentally conscious approach.
Investing in People and the Future of Yachting
To support the company's overall strategy, Vitelli has also focused on strengthening the managerial culture and governance within the Azimut|Benetti Group. One notable initiative is the establishment of the Azimut|Benetti Group Corporate Academy, which aims to provide professional education and growth opportunities for employees. The academy focuses on transferring the expertise that embodies Italian excellence in technology, engineering, and manufacturing, while also supporting young people entering the yachting industry.
Vitelli's Vision for the Future of Yachting
"I believe that this award represents recognition for the results obtained by the entire Group as we accompany our clients into a new era of yachting and a new way of experiencing the sea," said Vitelli. "As a family company, we have the privilege of looking ahead and creating value over time. Today, this means committing to reducing emissions to make the nautical world more sustainable, which inspires other players in the sector to do the same. But above all, it means continuing to combine the greatest beauty with the most sophisticated technology. My thanks to the 2,250 people who work for Azimut|Benetti Group around the world and who, together with me, continue to chart the course.”