How do you approach managing legal aspects during periods of instability or crises, and how does your legal strategy align with the broader business strategy to ensure the organisation’s resilience?

In times of instability—whether economic, regulatory, or geopolitical—I believe the legal function must act as both a stabilizer and a strategic enabler. My approach begins with proactive risk mapping, where I work closely with cross-functional teams to identify vulnerabilities across contracts, compliance, and real estate assets. This allows us to anticipate disruptions and prepare mitigation strategies in advance. My dual role in legal and real estate development has been particularly valuable in aligning legal strategy with business resilience or strategic decisions, like anticipating contract renewals for all the strategic locations, negotiating complex leases for new strategic openings or supporting M&A operations to strengthen the supply chain. I try to ensure that our real estate portfolio is not only compliant but also adaptable—supporting business continuity through flexible lease structures (structuring contracts with force majeure, termination, and renegotiation clauses that protect the company)and sustainable development practices. Moreover, I view transparency and ethical leadership as essential. In uncertain times, clear communication and principled decision-making build trust with stakeholders and reinforce the company’s long-term reputation.

What are the major cases or transactions you have been involved in recently?

I have negotiated the complex lease structure for the future opening of our biggest flagship (New York, Fifth Avenue). Other operations or details cannot be disclosed for now.

What emerging technologies do you see as having the most significant impact on the legal profession in the near future, and how do you stay updated on these developments?

Emerging technologies—particularly generative AI, automation, and data analytics—are reshaping the legal profession at an unprecedented pace. Among these, generative AI stands out as a transformative force, as it is already enhancing legal research, contract analysis, and document drafting, enabling legal teams to focus on higher-value strategic work. In my role, I see its potential not only in operational efficiency but also in risk mitigation and compliance monitoring, especially in complex real estate and corporate transactions. To stay ahead, I actively engage with legal tech forums, attend industry conferences, participate in peer networks where we exchange insights on practical implementation and governance challenges and collaborate with cross-functional teams—particularly IT and compliance—to pilot and evaluate new tools. Another technological development I consider particularly relevant is the introduction of the Digital Product Passport (DPP), as outlined in the new European Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR).The DPP marks a turning point in product traceability, transparency and anticounterfeiting, providing a digital record containing data on composition, sustainability, reparability, and lifecycle. For companies operating in sectors such as retail or manufacturing, this introduces new legal responsibilities regarding the collection, management, and sharing of data across the entire supply chain. As General Counsel, my role is twofold: on one hand, ensuring regulatory compliance and data protection; on the other, helping to define corporate policies that turn this obligation into a strategic opportunity. The DPP is in fact not just a compliance requirement—it’s a catalyst for consumer trust, operational efficiency, and sustainable innovation. To stay informed, I closely monitor European regulatory developments, participate in cross-functional working groups, and collaborate with ESG and IT teams to anticipate impacts and design scalable, compliant solutions.

In your opinion, what are the main trends that are salient in your country currently?

Italy in 2025 is navigating a complex environment, particularly for the luxury sector. While the broader economy is showing resilience, luxury businesses are facing a new baseline of volatility. Economic headwinds, geopolitical tensions, and shifting consumer expectations are reshaping the industry’s fundamentals. At the same time, the luxury sector is undergoing a cultural recalibration. Younger generations are challenging traditional notions of exclusivity and value, prompting brands to rethink their propositions. This shift demands legal foresight in areas such as IP protection, digital commerce, ESG compliance, and ethical sourcing. The legal function is increasingly central to ensuring that innovation aligns with brand heritage and stakeholder expectations.