Leadership Change at CIFA: Paolo Gandola Appointed CEO as Davide Cipolla Steps Down

CIFA, the Italian manufacturer of concrete machinery and part of the Zoomlion Group, has announced a major leadership transition. Paolo Gandola has been appointed Chief Executive Officer, succeeding Davide Cipolla, who has led the company for the past 15 years.

The change marks the beginning of a new chapter for CIFA, which is based in Senago and recognized globally for its innovation in concrete technology and industrial automation.

Davide Cipolla Retires After 30+ Years at CIFA

Davide Cipolla, who joined CIFA in 1992 and became CEO in 2009, is retiring from executive duties as he approaches the end of his career. His departure was formally accepted by the Board of Directors on November 25, 2025.

During his tenure, Cipolla played a decisive role in steering CIFA through a period of industrial transformation, international expansion, and strategic integration into the Zoomlion Group. Under his leadership, the company invested significantly in R&D, process modernisation, and production capacity, strengthening CIFA’s position in global markets.

While stepping down as CEO, Cipolla will remain involved with the group for a transition period, taking on responsibilities for strategic initiatives in Italy under the Zoomlion umbrella.

Paolo Gandola: From CFO to CEO

The new CEO, Paolo Gandola, brings deep experience in the company’s financial and operational structures. Having joined CIFA in 2008 and served as Chief Financial Officer, Gandola is well-positioned to guide the company through its next growth phase.

He will also take on the role of Deputy General Manager of Zoomlion’s Concrete Machinery Business Unit, underlining his expanding role within the parent group.

“With this appointment, CIFA signals continuity in its industrial evolution,” the company said in its official statement, adding thanks to Cipolla for his “contribution to the company’s development and strong international identity.”

The leadership change comes at a pivotal time for the concrete equipment industry. As digitalization, sustainability, and electrification reshape the construction machinery landscape, manufacturers like CIFA are under increasing pressure to adapt product lines and production systems.

With Gandola at the helm, CIFA is expected to continue its strategic focus on innovation, global market penetration, and supply chain resilience — especially amid ongoing disruptions and decarbonization goals in construction.