Carlo Messina, CEO of Intesa Sanpaolo, has been named “European Banker of the Year 2024” by the Group of 20+1, an international association of financial and business journalists. The award was presented at a ceremony in Frankfurt’s Kaisersaal (Emperors’ Hall) at the Römer (City Hall), attended by over 200 guests.
The event featured speeches from several notable figures including Fabrizio Bucci, Italian Ambassador to Germany; Stephanie Wüst, Deputy Mayor and Head of the Department of Economy, Legal Affairs and City Marketing of Frankfurt; Sergio P. Ermotti, Group CEO of UBS Group AG and previous recipient of the award; Albrecht F. Schirmacher, Chairman of “The Group of 20+1” and Publisher at DER PLATOW Brief; and Andreas Scholz, President of the Euro Finance Group.
Messina received recognition for consistently strong results since 2013, a more than threefold increase in Intesa Sanpaolo’s stock market value, record net income in 2024, commitment to supporting environmental initiatives such as the green transition, and significant involvement in social impact projects.
Carlo Messina commented on receiving the award: “This recognition honours a model of banking that combines strength with purpose. At Intesa Sanpaolo, we believe profitability and social impact are complementary — and that turning savings into confidence, and confidence into growth, is the mission of a bank worthy of trust.”
Sergio P. Ermotti introduced Messina at the ceremony stating: “Carlo has established himself as a leader of European banking – a man who is driven by passion, but makes decisions based on extensive knowledge and experience, and leads with vision.”
Albrecht F. Schirmacher also spoke about Messina’s tenure: “Carlo Messina is one of the longest-serving CEOs in European banking. His achievements go well beyond financial results; it’s far more than banking. Intesa Sanpaolo has strongly embraced its social responsibilities.”
