He was born in Turin into a family of entrepreneurs who have been in the mechanical mould-making industry for three generations. He graduated in mechanical engineering from the Turin Polytechnic, where he taught ‘Special Automotive Technologies’ for about ten years. After a stint at Comau Fiat, 25 years ago he started an entrepreneurial activity outside the family business, in the sheet metal mould construction sector, becoming one of Europe’s leading players. He is also involved in investment and real estate.