Stefanel appoints Cristiano Portas as new CEO

By

Dominique Muret

Published
Jan 18, 2018

Before the Christmas break, Stefanel announced the finalization of its rescue plan. The Italian brand specialized in knitwear, which had until then been directed by the Stefanel family, had managed to pull off a complex operation, as a result of which the company was acquired by British asset management firm Attestor Capital which now holds 71% of its capital. Now Stefanel has confirmed the appointment of Cristiano Portas as its new CEO, a role in which he succeeds Stefano Visalli, who has been tasked with overseeing transition. 

The 59-year-old industry veteran has wide management experience, having been at the head of swimwear brand Arena from 1999 to 2016, during which time he oversaw the label's expansion and recovery. 

Before this, the economics graduate was managing director and director general of Lego Italy. He has also been active in marketing and sales in the fast-moving consumer goods sector, working with, among others, Procter & Gamble for ten years.