A New Chapter for Confindustria Varese

Confindustria Varese is poised to embark on a new four-year journey (2025-2028) under teh leadership of Luigi Galdabini, who has been unanimously elected as the new Chairman. Galdabini, currently the Managing Director of Cesare Galdabini Spa, will officially assume his role on May 19, 2025, during the general Assembly at the Volandia Museum in Somma Lombardo. He succeeds Roberto Grassi, whose six-year tenure was marked by dedication and close ties to the local business community.

Galdabini’s Extensive Background: A Blend of Industry Expertise and associative Leadership

Born in 1958, Luigi Galdabini brings a wealth of experience to his new position. A mechanical engineering graduate from the Polytechnic of Milan, he has successfully steered his family’s company, a prominent manufacturer of materials testing machines, thru generational transitions. His involvement in Confindustria Varese spans several key roles:

• President of the mechanical group (2011-2014)
• Vice-President under the Comerio and Grassi presidencies
• Member of the General Council of Confindustria National (2015-2023)
• President of Ucimu (2012-2016)
• Vice-President of Cecima, the European Association of manufacturing Technologies

Furthermore, Galdabini currently serves as Project Manager of MILL, a hub for Manufacturing, Innovation, Learning & Logistics championed by Confindustria Varese in collaboration with Liuc Cattaneo University. This initiative underscores his commitment to fostering growth and development within the region’s industrial landscape.

Strategic Priorities: Innovation, Sustainability, and Regional Competitiveness

Galdabini’s agenda places importent emphasis on MILL, viewing it as a “cardinal project” vital for revitalizing the region and enhancing the competitiveness of Varese-based companies. He stresses the importance of maintaining continuity in both values and strategic direction,a sentiment echoed by entrepreneurs and association members during recent consultations.

Beyond MILL, Galdabini’s priorities include:

• Boosting innovation, sustainability, and competitiveness among SMEs. according to a recent report by the European Commission, SMEs account for 99% of all businesses in the EU, providing two-thirds of private sector jobs. Supporting their growth is crucial for economic prosperity.
• Guiding young talent towards careers in industry and strengthening connections with schools and technical institutions (ITS).
• Investing in collaborative ventures with LIUC University to foster research and development.
• Promoting human capital development, with a focus on gender equality. Recent data from the World Economic Forum indicates that closing the gender gap could add trillions to the global economy.
• Advocating effectively at all institutional levels against policies that hinder industrial progress.
• Encouraging active participation within the association and revitalizing its activities.

Building a Strong leadership Team

in early May, Galdabini will present his nominations for the four Vice-Presidents who will form the Presidential Council. This team will play a crucial role in supporting Galdabini’s vision and guiding Confindustria Varese over the next four years.