Giovanna Vitelli

EY World Entrepreneur Of The Year™ 2025 finalist, Italy
Chair of Azimut|Benetti Group

Giovanna Vitelli champions elegance while steering luxury yachts toward sustainability.

Giovanna Vitelli stands at the helm of a family business that has led the yachting industry for 25 consecutive years. Founded by her father, Paolo Vitelli, in the 1960s, the company initially focused on importing boats from Northern Europe. Soon after, Paolo pivoted to producing his own vessels, blending Italian flair with technological and design innovation. This strategic shift laid the foundation for the Azimut|Benetti Group’s success and global expansion.

After graduating from law school and working at a law firm, Giovanna joined the family business in 2000 and was appointed Chair in 2023. Under her leadership, the Azimut|Benetti Group has maintained its position as the world’s largest private luxury yacht enterprise. The group is renowned for its commitment to innovation, outstanding aesthetics and sustainability, offering over 40 models that bring to life the desires of all yachting enthusiasts, from giga yachts to sports boats.

With a workforce of over 2,500 employees representing 33 nationalities, the Azimut|Benetti Group is one of the industry’s most people-centric shipyards. The company has also successfully navigated a generational transition at all levels, making it younger and more dynamic than ever. 

Giovanna is deeply committed to raising the standards of yachting by collaborating with designers, universities and researchers to develop more sustainable propulsion solutions. As a result, the group has set the benchmark in the yachting sector for reducing CO2 emissions across its models. As a strong advocate for “Made in Italy,” Giovanna represents the essence of Italian elegance, style and high artisanship on the world stage.