Lapo Civiletti, Ferrero
Lapo Civiletti will be the first non-family c.e.o. in Ferrero’s history.

LUXEMBOURG — Lapo Civiletti has been named chief executive officer of The Ferrero Group, effective Sept. 1. Mr. Civiletti is currently head of central and eastern European operations.

Mr. Civiletti succeeds Giovanni Ferrero, who will assume the role of executive chairman and focus on long-term strategy, Ferrero said.

Mr. Civiletti will be the first non-family c.e.o. in the company’s history. Mr. Ferrero is the grandson of Pietro Ferrero, who founded the company in 1946. 

Giovanni Ferrero, Ferrero
Giovanni Ferrero

“I am very confident that Mr. Lapo Civiletti will ensure continuity in reaching business goals and effectively support the group in its growth objectives,” Mr. Ferrero said. “He has been chosen for his business acumen, vision and mission-driven orientation whilst truly fostering the Ferrero culture and core values.”

Ferrero owns such brands as Tic Tac, Ferrero Rocher and Nutella hazelnut spread. Earlier this month, the company bought Fannie May Confections for $115 million.