Duferco’s Chairman received the honour today from Italian President Sergio Mattarella. The first Chiavari native ever to be so recognised, Gozzi pointed to the power of teamwork, the strategic importance of industry and the duty to invest in young people.
The honour crowns a long entrepreneurial career defined by innovation, resilience in international markets and a lasting contribution to Italy’s industrial and economic growth. Antonio Gozzi, Chairman of Duferco and of Federacciai, the Italian steel federation, and Vice President of Confindustria, was today named Cavaliere del Lavoro (Knight of the Order of Merit for Labour) by the President of the Italian Republic, Sergio Mattarella.
For the Ligurian entrepreneur it was a deeply personal moment, and one he chose to share with the people who have stood beside him throughout his career and life – a tribute to teamwork, to his roots and to the role business must play in shaping the future.
“To be named Cavaliere del Lavoro by President Sergio Mattarella is a great honour,” said Antonio Gozzi. “I want to share it with everyone who has made my journey possible, both personally and professionally. My first thoughts are with the women and men who have worked – and still work – alongside me, bringing their skill, passion and sense of responsibility to a shared mission. And a special thank you goes to my family, who have supported me every step of the way.”
For Gozzi, the award reflects above all a collective effort and a vision of business with people at its heart.
“A company is something you build together. Behind every investment, every milestone and every challenge overcome are people united by a common goal and the determination to reach it. This honour is theirs as well. I have always seen industry as an engine of economic and social progress. Running a business means taking risks, innovating and adapting to change – but it also means creating jobs, developing talent and giving young people real opportunities.”
Looking ahead, Duferco’s Chairman addressed the challenges facing Italian and European industry at a time of sweeping economic, technological and geopolitical change.
“Today I feel that responsibility more keenly than ever. In times of profound change, Italy and Europe must have faith in their industrial strength and in the talent of their people. We need investment, vision and resolve – and the courage to think long-term, even when the choices get harder.”
His connection to Chiavari and the Tigullio coast carries special meaning. Gozzi is the first person from Chiavari to receive the title – a source of particular pride for an entrepreneur who has built a business of international reach while never losing touch with his hometown.
“Wherever I go, I take my roots and my bond with Chiavari with me. Being the first Chiavari native to receive this honour moves me deeply, but it also sends a message of hope: you can stay rooted in your community and still compete on the global stage.”
Gozzi closed by recalling President Mattarella’s words and the importance of education and training as a vital investment in the country’s future.
“The President’s call to keep investing in the education and training of young people only strengthens my resolve to continue on this path with passion and responsibility. I want to put my experience to good use, help create new opportunities and, above all, give young people the confidence and courage to believe in their dreams and build their own future.”
“Because the true value of what we build lies also in our ability to help others grow,” Gozzi concluded.