Italy plans to appoint Marcello Sala, a senior official from its economy ministry, to the supervisory board of semiconductor giant STMicroelectronics, according to three sources familiar with the matter. Sala heads the department that oversees state-run firms and asset disposals, and his nomination is seen as part of Italy’s effort to gain greater influence over the chipmaker amid internal concerns about company leadership and job cuts.
STMicroelectronics, jointly owned by the French and Italian governments through a 27.5% stake in a holding company, is currently navigating a challenging environment due to weak performance in its key automotive and industrial sectors. The group employs around 50,000 people globally.
. Supervisory Shake-Up Amid CEO Criticism
Alongside Sala, Italy is also expected to nominate Simonetta Acri to the supervisory board, replacing outgoing members Maurizio Tamagnini and Donatella Sciuto. The proposed changes, once formalised, will require approval from STMicroelectronics’ supervisory board and shareholders during the general meeting scheduled for May.
One of the sources said Italy’s move comes amid dissatisfaction with current CEO Jean-Marc Chery, who has led the company through a rough patch marked by declining market demand. The supervisory board’s role is to provide policy oversight and strategic guidance to the board of directors.
. Closer Government Oversight and Labor Concerns
The Italian government is especially keen on getting a clearer picture of STMicroelectronics’ $300 million cost-cutting initiative, which includes a potential reduction in headcount. Italian labor unions have raised alarms about the possibility of over 2,000 job cuts, prompting Economy Minister Giancarlo Giorgetti and Industry Minister Adolfo Urso to call for a meeting with company and union representatives on April 3.
Marcello Sala, known for his involvement in sensitive state asset deals—including the reduction of Italy’s stake in Monte dei Paschi di Siena—will not immediately step down from his ministry role. His possible dual responsibilities underscore Rome’s intent to exert stronger oversight over critical strategic industries.
. Broader Influence in Corporate Italy
Sala is also in consideration for the chairmanship of payments group Nexi, where state investment arm Cassa Depositi e Prestiti is a major shareholder. The move reinforces the Italian government’s ongoing strategy to place key figures in influential positions across strategic sectors such as tech, banking, and digital infrastructure.
. Background Political Ties
Notably, current STMicroelectronics board member Paolo Visca previously served as chief of staff at the industry ministry during Giorgetti’s earlier tenure, reflecting the long-standing political ties influencing appointments within the group.
The developments at STMicroelectronics highlight Italy’s broader push to assert more control over strategic corporate decisions in industries critical to the nation’s economic and technological future.