Francesco Profumo

Francesco Profumo is an Italian engineer, academic and executive with a career spanning higher education, corporate governance and public policy. Recognised for promoting technological innovation, he was Italy's Minister of Education, Universities and Research from 2011 to 2013 in Prime Minister Mario Monti's technocratic government.

He graduated in electrical engineering from Politecnico di Torino in 1977 and began his career at Ansaldo before entering academia. As Rector of Politecnico di Torino from 2005 to 2011, he expanded its international presence and strengthened its ties with the global technology industry. In 2011, he became President of the National Research Council (CNR), shortly before his ministerial appointment.

He has held senior governance positions in the corporate and financial sectors, serving as President of Fondazione Compagnia di San Paolo (2016–2024) and leading ACRI, the association representing Italian foundations and savings banks.

He is currently Chairman of Isybank, Intesa Sanpaolo's digital bank, and Chairman of Società Gasdotti Italia (SGI), focusing on digital transition and infrastructure. He also serves on the European Innovation Council (EIC) Board, supporting European research and technological advancement.