Francesco Caltagirone Managing Director of Caltagirone SpA Country: Italy

1. Biography of Francesco Gaetano Caltagirone
2. Education and Early Career
3. Caltagirone SpA and Vianini Spa
4. Expansion into Publishing
5. Personal Life

Biography of Francesco Gaetano Caltagirone

Francesco Gaetano Caltagirone was born in 1943 in Italy. He grew up in a large family, with many sisters and brothers, all of whom were engaged in the construction industry. The Caltagirone family had established themselves as one of the best in the construction business since the 1800s.

Education and Early Career

After completing his high school education, Caltagirone moved to Rome to pursue higher education. He studied mechanical engineering and construction at the university. After graduating, he, along with his brothers, embarked on revitalizing the family business.

Caltagirone SpA and Vianini Spa

Under Caltagirone's leadership, the company "Caltagirone SpA" experienced significant growth. Approximately 200 residential buildings and 800 commercial structures were constructed. In the 1970s, Caltagirone transferred part of his assets to his cousin Gaetano, who became the majority shareholder of the company.

In 1984, Caltagirone established a new enterprise, "Vianini Spa," which quickly began to flourish. By 1992, the Caltagirone family's cement plants had gained international recognition. In the late 1990s, Caltagirone inherited the majority stake in "Caltagirone SpA" from his brother.

Expansion into Publishing

In 1996, Caltagirone acquired the daily newspapers "Messaggero" and "Mattino." In 2000, he merged them to form the publishing company "Caltagirone Editore," which has become the fifth-largest publishing enterprise in Italy.

In 2006, Caltagirone purchased 54.59% of the shares of the daily newspaper "Gazzettino" for 120 million euros. Currently, he is one of the wealthiest individuals in Italy and ranks 446th on Forbes' list of the world's richest people.

Personal Life

Caltagirone is married and has three children: Francesco, Alessandro, and Azura. He continues to serve as the CEO of "Caltagirone SpA," which specializes in cement production, residential and industrial construction. Additionally, his son holds the position of president of the cement plant division within the company. Caltagirone also has assets in "Acea SpA," the main electricity supplier in Italy.