Early Life and Education
Dona Bertarelli was born in Rome, Italy, on March 3, 1968. She is the daughter of Fabio Bertarelli and Maria Iris Bertarelli. Her family's wealth originated from Serono, a biotechnology company founded in 1906, which became a cornerstone of their investments. Bertarelli holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Boston University's College of Communication.
Rise to Success
Bertarelli's career includes significant contributions to Serono, where she served as Executive Director of Public and Professional Affairs from 1992 to 1997. During her tenure, she played a key role in establishing the Serono Symposia and the Serono Foundation, driving the company's philanthropic and educational initiatives. After the sale of Serono to Merck KGaA in 2007, she focused on managing her investments.
Key Business Strategies
Bertarelli's business acumen is evident in her strategic investments and leadership roles. She took over the Grand Hôtel Park in Gstaad in 2003 and has been involved in several ventures, including the acquisition of the Italian fashion brand Fiorucci. Her focus on long-term value creation is reflected in her assets in hospitality and real estate.
Philanthropy
In 1999, Dona and her brother, Ernesto Bertarelli, co-founded the Bertarelli Foundation, initially focusing on reproductive health and infertility, and later expanding to marine conservation. Her philanthropic efforts have supported the protection of over 16 million square kilometers of ocean through the Pew Bertarelli Ocean Legacy. She is also a Special Advisor for the Blue Economy for the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD). In April 2024, Bertarelli pledged $60.8 million to protect the Mediterranean Sea.
