Ferrari appoints technology executive Vigna as new CEO

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Ferrari has appointed Italian tech executive Benedetto Bigna as its new CEO, filling a six-month vacancy at the helm of the automotive manufacturer following the departure at the end of last year of former chief executive Louis Camilleri.

Vigna will join Ferrari on September 1 from STMicroelectronics where the 52-year-old Italian currently leads the Franco-Italian chip maker's Analog, MEMS and Sensors Group.

"We’re delighted to welcome Benedetto Vigna as our new Ferrari CEO, " commented Ferrari Chairman and interim CEO John Elkann.

"His deep understanding of the technologies driving much of the change in our industry, and his proven innovation, business-building and leadership skills, will further strengthen Ferrari and its unique story of passion and performance, in the exciting era ahead."

Read also: Ferrari goes back to its roots with 2023 Le Mans Hypercar entry!

As the automotive industry undergoes a significant paradigm shift with a move towards electrification, Ferrari stated that Vigna's unique knowledge gained over 26 years working at the heart of the semiconductor industry will "accelerate Ferrari’s ability to pioneer the application of next generation technologies".

Benedetto Vigna commented: "It’s a special honour to be joining Ferrari as its CEO and I do so with an equal sense of excitement and responsibility.

"Excitement at the great opportunities that are there to be captured. And with a profound sense of responsibility towards the extraordinary achievements and capabilities of the men and women of Ferrari, to all the company’s stakeholders and to everyone around the world for whom Ferrari is such a unique passion."

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.