Leonardo’s Board of Directors appointed Lorenzo Mariani as Chief Executive Officer and General Manager on May 7, 2026. The move follows the election of a new board and introduces a revised governance structure for the Italian aerospace, defense, and security company.
Mariani succeeds Roberto Cingolani, bringing extensive experience in the sector. His career at Leonardo includes roles as Chief Commercial Officer from 2017 and Chief Executive Officer of Leonardo International from 2018. From April 1, 2025, he served as MBDA Executive Group Director Sales & Business Development and Managing Director of MBDA Italia, with additional oversight of Leonardo group operations in 2025.
The board granted Mariani full operational powers for company and group management, excluding matters reserved by law, articles of association, or board resolutions. Francesco Macrì was appointed Chairman concurrently.
The board also established a new General Management Department reporting to the CEO, with Gian Piero Cutillo named Co-General Manager to lead it. The appointment occurs amid evolving demands in defense, technology, and security sectors across Europe.