Alberto Alessi (Italy)

Alberto Alessi heads the world famous Italian design factory that bears his name. Founded in 1921, the Alessi brand has become synonymous with hip, elegant kitchenware. Generally crafted in colourful plastic and stainless steel, and using the skills of well-known designers, many items became 'must-haves' for design-conscious householders.

When Alberto assumed control of the company, he revitalised the brand and ensured its future, through collaborations with some of the biggest names in design, including Norman Foster, Frank Gehry and Jasper Morrison. It was Alberto's decision to move beyond metalwork to produce designs in ceramics and wood. Among the most famous items produced during this period are Philippe Starck's citrus juicer and Michael Graves's kettle with the bird-shaped whistle.

Alberto is the author of several books and he writes, and reviews, for many international publications. He is a Senior Fellow of the Royal College of Art and a member of the Honorary Committee of London's Design Museum. He was awarded the Lifetime Achievement Design Award by the Brooklyn Museum, New York and holds numerous other academic and honorary titles.

As a business speaker, Alberto cites his company as an example of how traditional brands and working methods can be reinvigorated without losing the original ethos and customer loyalty. He encourages audiences to embrace avant garde thinking, whilst keeping one foot in tradition.

'Our role is to act as a mediator between the designer and the needs and dreams of the market.' - Alberto Alessi.