Young Scion

Being born to a wealthy family has its perks. Having that wealth also means having a huge responsibility. While there are many wealthy individuals who simply live off their inheritance there are others who take over the responsibility of managing and growing the family fortune.  John Elkann is a young man who is in such a position.

It can be said that Elkann is truly an international person.  He was born in the New York in 1976. Elkann attended primary school in the U.K. and Brazil. Then is family moved to Paris, France where he earned a degree at the State School Lycée Victor-Duruy in 1994. That same year he moved to Italy and graduated with a degree in management engineering in 2000 at the Politecnico di Torino (Turin).

Due to the death of a cousin Elkann was suddenly thrust into a huge role, becoming heir apparent of the Angelli clan which controls giant car maker Fiat. In 1997 at the age of 22 he acquired the controlling stake at Fiat.  In 2010 he became the chairman of the company.

Given the size of Fiat aside from other family businesses Elkann cannot just make simple business decisions without thinking of the social and political impact. Moving Fiat operations outside of Italy is viewed by some Italians as treason. 

The 36 year old scion who is described as soft spoken has already been making tough decisions to keep Fiat (which also owns the Ferrari,  Maserati and Alfa Romeo brands) viable, continue to grow the family wealth through numerous investments elsewhere while maintaining a good relationship with politicians and the general Italian public.