Enrico Galliera, Ferrari's chief marketing and commercial officer, has resigned after 16 years with the company, according to a BBC report. His departure comes just weeks after the launch of Ferrari's first-ever all-electric vehicle, the Luce, which was met with widespread criticism online and from prominent figures.
The BBC reported that Ferrari announced Galliera's departure this week but did not mention the Luce launch in its statement. Galliera will be replaced by Massimiliano Di Silvestre, former head of BMW Italy, starting in July.
Galliera's Tenure and Departure
Galliera took on the marketing role in 2010 and oversaw key milestones including the 2013 launch of the LaFerrari, Ferrari's first production hybrid hypercar combining a petrol engine and an electric motor, according to the BBC. He also managed client allocation for the luxury car maker's highly sought-after vehicles.
"He has played a significant role in the company's growth and in strengthening the Ferrari brand worldwide," said Ferrari CEO Benedetto Vigna in a statement reported by the BBC.
The company thanked Galliera for his service and stated that he had "decided to embark on a new chapter in his professional journey - a decision shared with the company some time ago," per the BBC.
"He has the gratitude of the entire Ferrari team and my personal best wishes for the future," Vigna added.
The BBC has contacted Galliera for comment.
Electric Ferrari Luce Launch Backlash
The Luce, priced at $640,000 (approximately £485,552) according to the BBC, was unveiled in May and immediately attracted negative reactions. Its design, credited to Sir Jony Ive, the designer of the iPhone, was criticised by Ferrari's former chairman and Italy's deputy prime minister and transport minister Matteo Salvini, the BBC reported.
Internet memes and negative commentary proliferated following the launch. Ferrari's shares dropped 8% the day after the Luce was unveiled, as stated in the BBC article.
The departure of the marketing chief so soon after the launch underscores the impact of the product's reception, though Ferrari did not link the two events in its announcement.
Production Timeline
No specific production timeline for the Luce or any other Ferrari model was provided in the source. The immediate focus is on the management change, with Di Silvestre taking over the marketing and commercial role in July.
For manufacturing executives and supply chain professionals, the leadership change at Ferrari's marketing division may signal potential shifts in vehicle allocation strategies and brand positioning as the company navigates its transition to electrification.
Sources:
