Who Leads Green Procurement at Five of Italy's Major Firms?

The rich manufacturing tradition and design prowess of Italy create distinctive challenges for procurement leadership.

Chief procurement officers in Italy work where traditional craftsmanship meets modern supply chain efficiency, much of which is characterised by a focus on sustainability, both environmentally and financially.

Here, we profile the executives that are shaping procurement across some of Italy's leading enterprises, spanning sectors from fashion to engineering, overseeing relationships with artisans and major corporations alike.

In this article, we explore their approach to harmonising tradition with modernity and domestic knowledge with international scope.

1. Stefano Ciurli, Head of Global Services at Enel

Enel stands as a prominent global energy corporation based in Italy, with expertise in electricity generation, distribution and renewable energy solutions spanning numerous nations. The company prioritises innovation and sustainability in its journey towards a decarbonised energy landscape.

Stefano Ciurli assumed the position of Head of Global Services, which encompasses Global Procurement, for the Enel Group in July 2023.

He obtained a degree in Economics and Business from LUISS University in Rome in 1987 and began his professional journey at Telecom Italia, where he advanced through progressively senior positions covering finance, administration, control, international development, procurement, logistics, real estate, energy, customer services and wholesale operations.

During 2003 to 2005, Ciurli held the position of CFO at Tim SpA, managing the company's merger with Telecom Italia SpA.

He subsequently worked for four years as Chief Procurement Officer of TI Group (2008–2012), after which he took on roles as Executive Vice President of the Caring Services Division (2012–2014) and Executive Vice President of Wholesale (2015–2018). During 2019 to 2023, he headed PTS, an Italian consulting firm, as Chief Executive Officer.

Across his professional journey, Ciurli has held numerous national and international board positions, including appointments at Telepiù, TESS, Saritel, Telecontact and PTS.

2. Costantino Chessa, Head of Procurement at Eni

Eni represents an Italian multinational energy corporation, predominantly engaged in petroleum, natural gas and petrochemicals, with wide-ranging global operations and a pronounced emphasis on energy transition and sustainability. Established in 1953, it ranks among Europe's most substantial oil companies, featuring diversified energy production.

Constantino Chessa is a seasoned energy sector executive boasting more than 25 years of professional experience. He has occupied senior management roles spanning procurement, human resources, organisational development and change management at both national and international levels. His proficiency encompasses steering major transformation initiatives including post-merger integration, cost optimisation, digital transformation and energy transition programmes.

He obtained a degree in Business Economics from Bocconi University and commenced his career at Saipem, where he dedicated 11 years cultivating comprehensive expertise in human resources. Throughout this period, he moved through positions in organisational development, talent management and industrial relations, participating in multiple post-acquisition integration projects.

After joining Eni in 2008, Constantino progressed through diverse management positions in human resources, organisation and continuous improvement prior to assuming responsibilities as Programme Director for Eni's principal cost-reduction and digital transformation initiatives.

From 2018 onwards, he has held the position of Head of Procurement, directing Eni's global procurement operations and controlling direct purchasing for central functions. In this capacity, he is leading substantial transformation throughout the supply chain to correspond with Eni's energy transition and decarbonisation goals, whilst simultaneously championing digital innovation, process improvement and capability development within the function.

From 2019 onwards, he has held a position as a Board Member of Eni Rewind, Eni's environmental subsidiary concentrating on circular economy projects. In this role, he participates in initiatives that sustainably restore and recover industrial land, water resources and waste through efficient reclamation and recovery solutions.

3. Stefan Koller, Chief Procurement Officer at Generali

Generali ranks among the most substantial integrated insurance and asset management groups globally. Founded in 1831, it maintains operations in more than 50 countries worldwide.

With approximately 87,000 employees serving 71 million customers, the group holds a commanding position in Europe and an expanding presence in Asia and Latin America. Central to Generali's strategy is its Lifetime Partner commitment to customers, delivered through innovative and personalised solutions, best-in-class customer experience and its digitalised global distribution capabilities.

The group has comprehensively integrated sustainability into all strategic choices, with the objective to create value for all stakeholders whilst building a fairer and more resilient society.

Stefan Koller has worked with Generali since 2007, beginning as a trainee, prior to advancing through the organisation to be appointed as CPO in July 2018.

He directs the activities of the company's procurement operations, which selects and uses the most reliable suppliers and those that enable it to limit the impact of business activities on the environment along the entire supply chain.

Generali Group aims at working with suppliers and external parties who share Generali values, committed to promoting respect of the global environment, human rights, labour rights, safety, quality and any factors which contribute to the overall welfare of society.

4. Stefano Pastori, Head of Procurement Strategy & Transformation at Intesa Sanpaolo

Intesa Sanpaolo represents Italy's foremost banking group, providing retail, corporate and investment banking services. It performs an essential function in the Italian economy and maintains a robust presence throughout Europe with diversified financial products.

Located in Milan, Stefano Pastori holds the role of Head of Procurement Strategy and Transformation at Intesa Sanpaolo. He possesses substantial experience from earlier positions within Intesa Sanpaolo, alongside roles at i-Faber S.p.A. (part of UniCredit) and Alstom Transport.

Pastori earned a Master of Business Administration from MIP Politecnico di Milano, achieved between 2008 and 2010. His professional competencies encompass automotive, business strategy, change management, consulting and contract negotiation, amongst other disciplines.

Stefano has contributed to shaping the Intesa Sanpaolo Group mindset when it comes to procurement, the supply and subcontracting system is an area of significant importance.

The Intesa Sanpaolo Group promotes, in line with the corporate strategies and objectives, shared policies and best practices in the field of purchasing for the entire Group to safeguard principles of ethical, social and environmental responsibility common to the companies belonging to the Group.

5. Claudio Colella, Head of Procurement for SDA Express at Poste Italiane

Poste Italiane, founded in 1862, has served as a cornerstone in Italy's postal and communication services. Based in Rome, the company has developed into a comprehensive service provider, seamlessly integrating postal services, logistics and financial offerings.

Poste Italiane continues to innovate and adapt to the changing needs of its customers and the market.

The company takes pride in its extensive network, which ensures reliable and efficient delivery of postal services across Italy.

Through a strategic blend of traditional and digital solutions, Poste Italiane has expanded its portfolio to include financial services, offering banking, insurance and investment products.

This diversification allows the company to cater to a broad spectrum of customer needs, making it a pivotal player in the financial landscape.

Beyond its core services, it has entered the telecommunications sector, providing mobile services to its customers. This expansion reflects the company's commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction, ensuring that it remains a relevant and trusted brand in Italy.

With a robust workforce of 120,000 employees, Poste Italiane is well-positioned to continue its legacy of excellence and service.

Throughout the company there are several procurement leaders, such as Claudio Colella, the Head of Procurement for Poste Italiane's SDA Express division.

Since 2016 he has been the Chief Procurement Officer with bottom line responsibility and budget in excess of €500 million per year, reporting to the CEO. He has full responsibility over process, organisation, contracts, systems and more.