Campari Group names Francesco Mele as new CFO 

ITALY – Campari Group has appointed Francesco Mele as its new Chief Financial Officer (CFO), effective in the fourth quarter of 2025.  

Mele succeeds Paolo Marchesini, who steps down from the position after nearly three decades at the Italian drinks maker. 

Marchesini, who joined Campari in 1997 as its first CFO, will transition to the role of vice-chairman of the company’s board of directors for a three-year term. Throughout his tenure, he also served as Chief Operating Officer, extending his responsibilities to include IT and global supply chain operations. 

Under Marchesini’s leadership, Campari Group completed the acquisition and integration of 40 businesses and divested 12 non-core brands. The company highlighted that its share price increased more than sevenfold during this period, while annual shareholder returns reached 10.1%. 

Reflecting on his career, Marchesini said he was proud of the results achieved at Campari Group, crediting the dedication and talent of his colleagues for the company’s growth and transformation. 

Francesco Mele joins Campari Group from his position as Chief Investment Officer at Italian bank Cassa Depositi e Prestiti (CDP). Mele is familiar with Campari, having advised the company in 2003 during its purchase of Aperol. Campari said Mele brings a strong blend of operational and managerial experience in complex environments, along with expertise in finance and IT. 

“I am excited to be joining Campari Group, an iconic Italian company that I have admired for many years,” Mele said. 

From the fourth quarter of 2025, Campari Group Chief Executive Officer Simon Hunt will assume responsibility for the firm’s global supply chain operations. 

The announcement follows Campari Group’s return to growth in the second quarter of 2025 after a 4.2% decline in the first three months of the year.  

For the first half of 2025, the company reported €1.3 billion (US$1.7bn) in sales with a slight 0.1% organic growth, €934 million (US$1.06bn) in gross profit, and €352 million (US$401m) in adjusted earnings before interest and tax (EBIT). 

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