Paolo Fresco

Paolo Fresco was a prominent Italian businessman and the president of Fiat from 1998 to 2003. Born in Milan and raised in Genoa, he graduated in law before embarking on a successful career in industry, eventually rising to the position of vice president at General Electric. Fresco was appointed by Gianni Agnelli to lead Fiat during a challenging period, where he negotiated a significant alliance with General Motors in 2000, a move that helped secure the future of the company. He passed away at the age of 93, leaving behind a legacy as a key figure in Italian industry, remembered fondly by colleagues and leaders within Fiat for his intelligence, sensitivity, and mentorship.