Gianluca Tanzi is a highly experienced global executive who has designed and executed successful retail, wholesale and e-commerce strategies for textile, fashion and accessories companies in Europe and the US. He previously served as Chief Operations Officer and member of the board of directors of Brooks Brothers, where he achieved significant cost reductions, incorporated new technical innovations from Italy and managed the company’s Made-to-Measure division. He served concurrently as CEO of Southwick, an American tailored clothing brand under the Brooks Brothers umbrella. Gianluca has also served as COO of Italian shoe and clothing brand Geox, Chief Supply Chain Officer of Luxottica Group, EVP of Supply Chain for United Colors of Benetton and Chief Operations Officer of Marzotto Textiles. Early in his career, he spent 14 years in general management roles in some of the top textile mills in Italy.
Travel and Exploration
I travelled all around the world for business purpose and I also spent six years in Manhattan, New York, with my family during my work experience at Brooks Brothers.
Bucket List
Enjoy life; Develop my company; Be a real support to my team
Define Success
True success is attained when others remember you for something.
Life Changing Event
My work experience in Vitale Barberis Canonico gave me the chance to work for someone I consider a ‘genius’. This experience has totally changed my work vision.
Role Model
Sergio Marchionne
One Superpower You Wish You Had
The passion
Advice to Young Professionals
Stay curious and be patient. Building something meaningful takes time and every challenge is a stepping stone.
Thoughts on Work-Life Balance
Be passionate and move out of the comfort zone.
Daily Routine
I start with preparing a good breakfast which is an important meal of the day and I like to read the newspaper during breakfast. Then immediately thereafter, I start looking at the data to check our company’s performance of the previous day.
Must-Watch Movie
I don’t like to see movies. I like documentaries, especially the ones that talk about history. Netflix is my place. I recommend to see The Great Hack which is all about understanding the power of the social network.
3 Must-Read Books
I have a penchant for reading biographies of people who make a difference in the world. Sergio
Marchionne, Michele Ferrero and Leonardo del Vecchio are some of the biographies that I really appreciate.
Passion and Hobbies
Being a sailor, I love to go with my sailing boat and I also love trekking.
Favourite Car
Volvo XC 90
