A wave of board renewals in MEF-controlled companies
The next three years will bring a significant transformation for MEF-controlled companies, with 212 governance renewals scheduled between 2025 and 2027. According to Unimpresa’s Research Center, 58 board appointmentswill take place in 2025, followed by 72 in 2026 and 82 in 2027. These changes will impact key strategic assets in the energy, transport, defense, and financial sectors.
The report highlights a total of 238 board members, including 98 women (41.2%) and 140 men (58.8%), reflecting a growing female representation, in line with the gender quota law introduced in 2021.
The major players under scrutiny: Eni, Poste, Leonardo, and Ferrovie
The upcoming board renewals will involve major corporations such as Eni, Poste Italiane, Leonardo, and Ferrovie dello Stato:
- Eni will renew its Board of Directors in 2025, focusing on expansion in hydrogen and decarbonization.
- Poste Italiane will see new leadership as the government reduces its state-held shares.
- Leonardo, a key player in defense and aerospace, will prioritize cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and next-generation aeronautics.
- Ferrovie dello Stato‘s governance will be reshaped in 2027, directing future infrastructure investments and high-speed railway expansion in Southern Italy.
Governance and strategic vision for the future
The Unimpresa report emphasizes the need for stronger governance, balancing stability and innovation. The biggest challenges will be energy transition and technological advancement.
The Italian government has a chance to modernize its public holdings, ensuring effective management in an increasingly competitive market.
The strategic role of state-controlled enterprises
The MEF holds direct and indirect stakes in 39 companies, including:
- 6 publicly traded firms
- 6 companies with listed financial instruments
- 27 privately held entities
Major players like Snam, Terna, and Italgas will focus on sustainability and energy security. Meanwhile, Monte dei Paschi di Siena, following reduced state ownership, must redefine its commercial and restructuring strategy.
A turning point for the public sector
With these board renewals, public enterprises will have a chance to reshape their growth strategies and boost international competitiveness. The key challenge will be balancing experience and innovation, ensuring efficient and sustainable governance.
