Italian coffee equipment manufacturer Cimbali Group has appointed former Ferrero CEO Frédéric Thil as its new General Manager.
Thil, who assumed the position in October 2024, will focus on expanding the company’s international footprint in the coffee machine market.
“We are extremely thrilled that Frédéric has accepted this challenge. His proven expertise will support our ongoing internationalisation process,” says Maurizio Cimbali, President of Cimbali Group.
Thil began his career in consumer goods in 1987, holding roles including National Account Manager at Unilever. He later joined Ferrero where he progressed from National Director for Large Customers to Commercial Director for Ferrero France and then General Manager in 2008.
In 2013, he was appointed CEO of Ferrero S.p.A. Italy, a role he held until 2016 when he moved to Luxembourg as Executive Director Travel Market and Food Service. From 2020 to 2024, he led Thil Consulting, supporting SMEs and startups in developing business plans.
In 2014, the President of the French Republic awarded him the honour of ‘Chevalier de la Légion d’Honneur’ for his contributions to social responsibility during his tenure at Ferrero France.
“I’m honoured by the trust placed in me,” says Thil. “I was struck by the family’s passion for fostering human capital and elevating the Group as a global ambassador of Italian excellence. Given my background, I am deeply sensitive to the importance of family values, brand awareness, and the international dimension of the business. I look forward to contributing with my experience to a company that combines global reach with strong Italian roots.”
Thil added that the company’s commitment to meeting evolving global demands while prioritising sustainability is both a “significant and exciting” challenge.
