Italian state railways CEO Donnarumma steps down earlier than planned after government push

Political pressure forces early exit

Donnarumma had been effectively removed by the government, after Transport Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini pushed for a change at the top of the state-controlled railway group. The resignation, accepted by the board during an extraordinary session on the afternoon of June 30, arrived several weeks ahead of the originally expected departure window between July 23 and August 1. Italian media described the move as a dismissal, and one report suggested the entire board would also step down, though the official statement focused only on Donnarumma's departure.

Board appreciates outgoing CEO, vows governance continuity

Board chairman Tommaso Tanzilli expressed thanks on behalf of the board.

“The President Tommaso Tanzilli, on behalf of the entire board, expressed his gratitude to Stefano Antonio Donnarumma for the work carried out at the helm of the FS Italiane Group, recognising his commitment, professionalism and contribution to the pursuit of the company's strategic objectives and the development of the main industrial programmes.”

The board will start procedures to ensure full continuity of governance and activities, in compliance with statutory and regulatory provisions. The group reaffirmed its commitment to the industrial plan, guaranteeing operational continuity, managerial efficiency and full implementation of investment programmes serving the country's mobility.

Trenitalia CEO Strisciuglio expected to take over

The early exit paves the way for a quick appointment of Gianpiero Strisciuglio, currently the CEO of Trenitalia, the main operating subsidiary of FS Group. No date was given for the succession, but a rapid handover was widely anticipated. The changes follow Salvini's call for a new leadership course at the group, which manages most of Italy's rail infrastructure and passenger services.