On January 6, 2025, John Elkann, the prominent Italian businessman and heir to the Agnelli family fortune, was appointed to the Board of Directors of Meta Platforms, Inc. (formerly Facebook). The appointment marks a significant moment for both Elkann and Meta, as he brings his extensive experience in corporate governance and global business strategy to one of the world’s largest technology companies.

Meta’s decision to include Elkann in its leadership structure is seen as part of a broader effort to strengthen its governance, particularly as the company faces an increasingly complex and competitive tech landscape. Meta, led by founder Mark Zuckerberg, is navigating challenges in areas such as artificial intelligence, virtual reality, and privacy concerns.

Elkann’s expertise in managing large, multi-faceted companies is expected to provide valuable insights as Meta looks to evolve in these areas.

John Elkann, who is also the chairman of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (now Stellantis) and the president of Exor, the holding company that controls the Agnelli family’s vast business empire, brings a wealth of experience to Meta. His leadership within diverse sectors, from automotive to finance, and his extensive boardroom presence, make him a highly valuable asset to Meta as it continues to expand its portfolio beyond social media platforms.

Elkann’s appointment is also seen as a strategic move for Meta, as the company seeks to diversify its board and ensure that it has the necessary expertise to navigate the rapidly changing global market. His appointment comes as Meta is undergoing major transformations, especially with its emphasis on the metaverse and a pivot toward more immersive digital experiences.

Mark Zuckerberg, who remains the CEO of Meta, welcomed Elkann to the board, praising his “visionary leadership” and his “invaluable experience” in global business strategy. Elkann’s role is expected to be key in helping Meta manage its complex operations and steer the company through its ambitious long-term goals. His ability to balance traditional business models with cutting-edge innovations will be critical as Meta invests heavily in virtual and augmented reality technologies.

For Elkann, this appointment strengthens his growing influence on the global business stage and offers him the opportunity to work alongside one of the leading figures in technology, Mark Zuckerberg, as the tech giant reshapes its future.