Fincantieri appoints new Director of Naval Vessels Division

Effective 1 September 2025, Eugenio Santagata will assume the role of Director of Fincantieri’s Naval Vessels Division, succeeding Dario Deste, who is retiring after a distinguished career. Deste will continue supporting the CEO in developing operations in the United States.

A former Italian Army officer, Santagata has held senior roles in the defence sector, including leadership positions at Elettronica SpA (ELT Group) and in the cyber intelligence and cybersecurity fields. He founded and listed CY4GATE, and transformed Telsy, a TIM Group company, during a key phase in its history.



Santagata holds degrees in Law and Political Science, advanced US academic qualifications, and an MBA from London Business School. He lectures at LUISS Business School and Khalifa University, and is a Knight of the Order of Merit of the Italian Republic.

Pierroberto Folgiero, CEO of Fincantieri, said: “We are pleased to welcome Eugenio Santagata to a strategic role for the future of our Group. His background combines solid experience in the defence sector with a strong international business vision. This blend of expertise will be key to tackling the global challenges ahead. Our heartfelt thanks goes to Dario Deste for his remarkable contribution over many years of leadership within the Group.”