Ernesto Bertarelli

Early Life

Ernesto Silvio Maurizio Bertarelli was born in Rome, Italy, on September 22, 1965. His family relocated to Switzerland in 1977 due to the political climate in Italy. From a young age, Bertarelli was exposed to the pharmaceutical industry through his family. He attended Babson College, graduating in 1989 with a degree emphasizing entrepreneurship. He then pursued an MBA at Harvard Business School, which he completed in 1993.

Rise to Success

After graduating from Harvard, Bertarelli joined the family-owned biotechnology firm Serono. He became the CEO in 1996, at the age of 31, and spearheaded a shift in the company's focus from pharmaceuticals to biotechnology. Under his leadership, Serono experienced substantial growth, with revenues increasing from $809 million in 1996 to $2.8 billion in 2006. In 2007, he sold Serono to Merck KGaA for $13.3 billion.

Key Business Strategies

Bertarelli's strategy involved a decisive move toward biotechnology, focusing on treatments for infertility, multiple sclerosis, and growth hormone deficiencies. His leadership transformed Serono into a global player in these areas. Following the sale of Serono, he established B-Flexion, a family office managing diversified investments with a focus on biotechnology and healthcare innovation.

Philanthropy

Bertarelli co-chairs the Bertarelli Foundation, which funds research in neuroscience and marine conservation. The Foundation has supported various initiatives, including the establishment of marine protected areas and programs for neuroscience research.