Mario Vanni is a consultant in Spencer Stuart’s Board and CEO practices. With many years of experience as a leader in the public sector, Mario is a trusted adviser to public utilities, private-sector stakeholders, bank foundations and private institutions, known for his
unbiased and caring attitude, keen business sense and sound judgment. He is also a respected expert, researcher and academic writer on topics such as constitutional law, public law and economics, the management of public utilities and public finance.
A relationship bridge-builder who puts community at the heart of decision-making
- Mario’s public sector career covers a wide range of capacities, including leadership in independent authorities, public bodies, local government and philanthropic associations. He is a sought-after expert on governance and legal matters, including skills required in regulated sectors.
- Prior to joining Spencer Stuart, Mario was the chief of staff for the Mayor of Milan, leading a team of about 250 people in managing the city's institutional and international relations and the governance functions of all investee companies.
- Before his work in Milan, he held various and growing leadership roles with the Italian Regulatory Authority for Energy, Networks and the Environment (ARERA), including as the head of the integration unit of water services and institutional relationships.
A lawyer by trade, Mario received a B.Sc. and L.L.M. in juridical science from the University of Milan, an M.Sc. in economics and management of public utilities from the Bocconi University, and a Ph.D. in public law from the University of Ferrara. He also recently completed the executive master program in finance at the Bocconi School of Management. In 2023, he was selected by the U.S. Department of State for its International Visitor Leadership Program, a professional exchange program.
A passionate advocate for less privileged groups in society, Mario has spent time on boards of directors for associations and foundations, such as the Cariplo Foundation and the nonprofit Milan Community Foundation, which aim to drive systemic change in social and economic opportunities as well as sustainability.