Francesca Martinello, General Manager, Moretto Group
In the picturesque town of Bassano del Grappa, where the rolling hills of the Veneto region cradle a close-knit community, Francesca Martinello’s journey began. It’s a tale that starts quietly, almost humbly, but unlike many other small-town stories, it unfolds into an audacious narrative of invincible courage, extraordinary resolve, and unabated passion of a woman, who dared to sail beyond the familiar.
At the tender age of twenty, Francesca made a decision that would shape her entire future—she left her homeland and family behind, setting out into the vast unknown with a mix of uncanny apprehension and unbound enthusiasm embodying the spirit of a ‘neophyte’ stepping into the world of business.
“My outlook on life has hugely influenced my career path: curiosity, the desire to push myself to the limit and face continuous challenges,” Francesca recalls. This curiosity led her first to London, UK, then to Poland, where she entered the plastic manufacturing sector, and then to Germany, where she navigated the complexities of large-scale retail trade. These experiences were more than professional milestones; they were pivotal chapters that sculpted her character. Three decades went by in the making of the business leader that she is today and her return after thirty years, was not merely a homecoming; it symbolized the culmination of her growth. Francesca returned with an abundance of knowledge, experience, and a refined professional ethos, that gratified her passion for metalworking- “the adrenaline that surrounds the automotive sector.”
Facing the Unknown
Challenges and setbacks are inevitable on our path to success. Yet, as greater obstacles often lead to greater glory, we must endure them with determination and perseverance. Francesca’s early life was punctuated by moments of intense challenges that ultimately became her profound learning experiences. Navigating through an unknown land of foreign cultures and languages, her dream was put to trial more than often. From the terror of the IRA attacks in London to the stark realities of life in Poland during the communist era, Francesca witnessed some of the ugliest and most horrific phases of European history! But with impeccable grit and gumption, she faced every challenge, which fortified her resilience. She encountered every challenge as a new opportunity for growth, and every setback as a stepping stone towards greater confidence and capability.
In a predominantly male industry, Francesca faces ongoing challenges. “Being a woman in a predominantly male world is a constant challenge,” she notes. She had to work through the prejudices and cultural biases deeply engrained in our society. Yet, Francesca confronts these barriers head-on, striving to make her voice heard and working tirelessly to create an environment of equality. “I never gave up; I always see these challenges as a new goal for me to reach – every step I make, however modest they may appear in my eyes, can etch a new beginning to benefit all women.” Francesca reflects. These words capture the essence of a woman’s journey, showing how she turned every obstacle into a lesson and every hardship into a source of strength.
Breathing Life into Moretto Group SpA
Today, as the General Manager of Moretto Group SpA, Francesca has harnessed her wisdom, knowledge, and energy to streamline her business while navigating through turbulent waters. Moretto SpA, much like its leader, has gone through many trials and tribulations until it evolved into a global brand. “Moretto SpA is like me, the product of years of determination and facing continuous challenges,” Francesca says boastfully. The company has weathered numerous storms, from the global financial crisis to the recent COVID-19 pandemic and geopolitical tensions like the Ukraine war.
Transitioning from the household appliance sector to the automotive industry, was another daunting decision. This transformation required not just strategic thinking but also a willingness to adapt and reinvent. Through perseverance and innovative thinking, Moretto Group Spa has thrived, quadrupling its turnover and securing its place in the industry.
The Inside Story: Building a Culture of Growth and Respect
At the core of Moretto’s success lies a deeply ingrained culture of respect and continuous improvement. In her company, Francesca places a strong emphasis on merit and a value system that recognizes people to be the lifeblood of the company. Such a people-centric culture develops an environment where employees are motivated to take on challenges and learn from their mistakes. Her leadership style is characterized by candor and empathy. “I am self-critical, sometimes to the extreme,” Francesca admits, but this trait fuels her desire to learn and grow. Her ability to listen and show appreciation for positive results creates a workplace where people feel valued, motivated, and empowered.
Leadership Through Passion and Responsibility
Francesca’s philosophy on leadership is deeply rooted in passion and a sense of duty. “Leadership is not only power but a responsibility and a sense of duty,” she says. Her commitment to excellence, independence, and collaboration has been a guiding force throughout her career. Francesca strives to lead by example, always ready to tackle any challenge that comes her way.
Championing Female Entrepreneurship
As a female business manager, Francesca is acutely aware of the hurdles women face in the industry. She advocates for supportive policies to bolster female entrepreneurship. Despite the obstacles, she remains steadfast in her mission to dismantle societal barriers and create opportunities for women in business.
A Vision for the Future
Days ahead, Francesca acknowledges the dynamic landscape and emerging challenges. Armed with a legacy of resilience and achievement, she harbors confidence in Moretto’s ability to navigate through the toughest terrains. “We must reinvent ourselves again to face the current crisis,” she declares. It is this ethos of setting audacious goals that has propelled both Francesca and Moretto Group Spa to success, laying the foundation for future endeavors and innovations.
Francesca Martinello’s journey is a compelling narrative of grit, innovation, and leadership. Her story inspires not only those in the automotive and manufacturing sectors but also women everywhere striving to make their mark in the world. Through her journey, we see a portrait of a woman who has been tested by the vicissitudes of fortune, yet faced the unknown with courage, and emerged stronger as a leader who continues to inspire and innovate.