Quick Facts
Biography
Brunello Cucinelli ([bruˈnɛllo kutʃiˈnɛlli]; born 3 September 1953 in Castel Rigone) is an Italian luxury creative director and the chief executive of his eponymous made in Italy brand, Brunello Cucinelli. He donates 20% of his profits through the Brunello Cucinelli Foundation. He has been described as a "philosopher-designer".
Early life and education
Cucinelli grew up in a rural agricultural community outside of Perugia. His childhood home had no electricity or running water. Cucinelli dropped out of engineering school at age 24, choosing instead to read philosophical texts on his own.
Career
Cucinelli's first product was cashmere wool sweaters in bright colors. In 1977 he started making dyed cashmere in a small workshop. He founded Brunello Cucinelli SpA in 1978 with the Italian lira equivalent of about $550; after the initial public offering of Brunello Cucinelli SpA his personal net worth exceeded $1 billion.
Philanthropy
In 2018 Cucinelli decided to sell 6% of his shares to donate 100 million to charity. His company gives about 20% of the profits to charity, with which he restored many works of art throughout Umbria, and he bought many lands around Solomeo, the town where he lives and where his company is based.
Awards and honors
- Leonardo Prize
- Honorary degree in philosophy and human relationships ethics from University of Perugia
- Cavaliere del lavoro – Italian Order of Merit for Labour in 2010
- Premio Guido Carli, 2011
- Pitti Immagine Uomo prize
- Fashion Group International, Fashion Star Honoree Award, October 2014
- Global Economy Prize for “Honorable Merchant” from the Government of Germany
- America Award of the Italy-USA Foundation in 2019
Personal life
Cucinelli is married to his hometown sweetheart Federica, and the couple have two daughters: Camilla and Carolina.