Billionaire Profile
Romano Minozzi
Global Rank
#2110

Image: Public domain | via Wikimedia Commons

Romano Minozzi

CEO, Iris Ceramica Group
IT
Real-Time Net Worth
$1.8B
As of December 2025
Age
90
Source
Utilities, diversified
Industry
diversified
Citizenship
IT

Biography

Romano Minozzi, born in 1935, is an Italian billionaire businessman and the founder and president of Iris Ceramica Group. His source of wealth is utilities and diversified investments. Minozzi's career began in banking, leading him to found Iris Ceramica Group in 1961, a company that has become a world leader in the design, production, and distribution of high-end ceramic products. His financial acumen extends to significant shareholdings in companies like Snam and Eni, reflecting his diversified investment portfolio. Minozzi's achievements include leading Iris Ceramica Group to international recognition and being recognized for his innovative approach in the ceramics industry.

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

Romano Minozzi was born in Castelnuovo Rangone, Italy, in 1935. He earned a degree in economics from the University of Bologna. Minozzi's career began in the banking sector in Modena, where he developed an interest in the stock exchange.

Rise to Success

In 1961, Minozzi took a significant step, acquiring a struggling ceramics company with a loan, which he then renamed Iris. Under his leadership, Iris expanded internationally, flourishing during Italy's postwar economic growth. The company produces products such as bathroom tiles and wall slabs. In the early 2000s, Minozzi expanded his interests to the stock market. He later served on Ferrari's board.

Key Business Strategies

Minozzi's success is attributed to his strategic investments and vision for innovation. He transformed Iris into a global leader in the ceramics industry by focusing on technological innovation, eco-sustainability, and production excellence. He has also made significant investments in the energy sector, acquiring stakes in major Italian companies like Snam and Eni, showcasing his diversified investment approach.

Philanthropy

Minozzi, along with his daughter Federica, established the Iris Ceramica Group Foundation in 2019. The foundation promotes environmental protection, sustainable development, and social cohesion.

Career Milestones

1961

Founded Iris Ceramica Group

Acquired a struggling ceramics company and renamed it Iris, which later became a global leader.

2000s

Expanded into Stock Market

Began investing in the stock market.

2017

Stepped Back from Iris Ceramica Group

Federica Minozzi, his daughter, became the CEO of Iris Ceramica Group

2019

Established the Iris Ceramica Group Foundation

Founded a non-profit organization promoting environmental protection, sustainable development, and social cohesion.

2025

Acquired a strategic 3% stake in Eni

Became a significant shareholder in the Italian energy group Eni.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Environmental and Social Causes

Iris Ceramica Group Foundation

Unknown

Promotes environmental protection, sustainable development, and social cohesion.

Business Philosophy & Leadership

Notable Quotes

"“I'm a ceramics industrialist, I bake earth,”"