Early Life
John Philip Jacob Elkann was born in New York City on April 1, 1976. His parents are Alain Elkann, a journalist and writer, and Margherita Agnelli. His grandparents were Gianni Agnelli, the former head of Fiat, and Marella Agnelli. Elkann spent his early years in the United Kingdom, Brazil, and France, where he attended primary school. He completed his Baccalauréat scientifique at Lycée Victor-Duruy in Paris in 1994. He renounced his U.S. citizenship in 2012. He holds dual citizenship.
Rise to Success
In 1997, Elkann was chosen as the heir to his grandfather Gianni Agnelli, following the death of Gianni's nephew. He graduated with a degree in management engineering from the Polytechnic University of Turin in 2000. Elkann began his career at General Electric in 2001 as part of the Corporate Audit Staff. In 2003, he joined the Fiat Group. He played a key role in the appointment of Sergio Marchionne as Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) CEO in 2004. He succeeded Luca Cordero di Montezemolo as chairman of Fiat S.p.A. (FCA) in 2010. In 2021, Elkann oversaw the merger between Fiat Chrysler and the PSA Group to create Stellantis.
Key Business Strategies
Elkann's leadership is marked by strategic acquisitions and mergers, notably the creation of Stellantis. His focus on innovation, luxury, and sports competitions has bolstered Ferrari's legacy. He has spearheaded the diversification of Exor through various investments and has also established new investment companies like Lingotto.
Philanthropy
Elkann actively participates in philanthropy through the Agnelli Foundation, focusing on education and research, as well as through emergency aid initiatives.