Gianni Letta
Gianni Letta | |
|---|---|
| Born | April 15, 1935 Italy |
| Occupation(s) | Politician, journalist |
| Known for | Close advisory role to Silvio Berlusconi; member of advisory board of Goldman Sachs International |
Giovanni "Gianni" Letta (born 15 April 1935) is an Italian politician and journalist, recognized for his close advisory role to Silvio Berlusconi and his position on the advisory board of Goldman Sachs International.
Biography
Letta obtained a degree in law before embarking on a journalism career, contributing to several newspapers as well as working with RAI and ANSA. Between 1973 and 1987, he held the position of editor-in-chief at Il Tempo, after which he became part of Berlusconi's Fininvest group. Additionally, he presented multiple television shows on Canale 5.
During Berlusconi's political tenure, Letta occupied the role of undersecretary in various administrations from 1994, 2001–2006, and 2008–2011. In 2010, CNN referred to him as "Berlusconi's right-hand man." Among his duties was managing government interactions with the Holy See. Letta has maintained a longstanding partnership with Berlusconi and notably acted as best man at Berlusconi’s marriage to Veronica Lario in 1990.
In the 2006 presidential election, Berlusconi put forward Letta as the candidate representing the House of Freedoms. He secured 369 votes in the initial round but was opposed by the majority coalition, L'Unione, who regarded him as closely aligned with Berlusconi. Ultimately, the presidency was awarded to Giorgio Napolitano.
On 18 June 2007, Letta became a member of the advisory board at Goldman Sachs International, offering strategic guidance with an emphasis on Italy. Chairman Peter Sutherland commended his extensive political background and profound understanding of both Italian and global markets. He is also related to Enrico Letta, former Prime Minister representing the centre-left Democratic Party.
In recognition of his contributions, he was honored with the America Award by the Italy-USA Foundation in 2014. As of September 2020, he holds a position within the Italian branch of the Aspen Institute.
Honours and awards
- : Grand Cross Knight of the Order of Merit of the Italian Republic (2002)
- : Knight Grand Cross of the Pian Order (2005)
- : Papal gentleman (2008)
- : Knight of the Order of the Legion of Honour (2009)
- : Gold Collar for Sporting Merit (2015)