In the world of coffee, quality reigns supreme. For Lavazza Group, a global leader in coffee production and innovation, ensuring exceptional quality at every step of the process is paramount. At the helm of this critical function is Gabriella Ruggieri, the company’s Chief Quality & Procurement Officer. Ruggieri’s journey to…
The Strategist Behind the Beans: A Look at Gabriella Ruggieri, Lavazza Group's Chief Quality & Procurement Officer

In the world of coffee, quality reigns supreme. For Lavazza Group, a global leader in coffee production and innovation, ensuring exceptional quality at every step of the process is paramount. At the helm of this critical function is Gabriella Ruggieri, the company’s Chief Quality & Procurement Officer.

Ruggieri’s journey to coffee giant Lavazza is a testament to her diverse skillset and unwavering commitment to excellence. Her career began in 1996 at Fiat Group, where she spent 23 years traversing various departments. This experience honed her expertise in multiple areas, from manufacturing and project management to purchasing and supplier quality.

Her meticulous approach and keen eye for detail are evident in her early roles at Fiat. As a UTE Quality Auditor and Technologist, she ensured adherence to stringent quality standards in the manufacturing sector. This foundation proved invaluable when Ruggieri transitioned to Style, taking on the mantle of Interiors Project Manager. Here, her focus shifted to aesthetics and functionality, ensuring a seamless blend of quality and design.

Ruggieri’s natural aptitude for procurement soon came to the fore. She excelled as a Senior Buyer Interiors, leveraging her negotiation skills to secure the best possible deals for Fiat. This expertise further blossomed when she was appointed Head of Supplier Quality Electrical & Electronics. In this role, Ruggieri spearheaded the evaluation and management of suppliers, guaranteeing that components met the company’s exacting quality standards.

Her impressive track record culminated in her well-deserved promotion to Supplier Quality Director at GM FIAT Worldwide Purchasing. Here, Ruggieri’s leadership transcended national boundaries. She oversaw a global network of suppliers, ensuring consistent quality across all operations.

In 2018, Lavazza Group recognized Ruggieri’s exceptional talent and appointed her as their Chief Quality & Procurement Officer. This marked a pivotal moment for both Ruggieri and the company. Her diverse background and proven track record in quality and procurement made her the ideal candidate to lead Lavazza’s pursuit of excellence.

Engineering Coffee Excellence

At Lavazza, Ruggieri’s responsibilities encompass two crucial domains: quality and procurement.

As Chief Quality Officer, she spearheads the company’s relentless pursuit of exceptional coffee. This involves overseeing a comprehensive quality management system that encompasses every stage of the coffee journey – from sourcing the finest beans to ensuring consistent taste and aroma in every cup.

Ruggieri’s approach to quality is multi-pronged. She fosters strong relationships with coffee growers around the world, ensuring sustainable sourcing practices and fair trade principles are upheld. Additionally, she oversees rigorous quality control measures throughout the supply chain, from bean selection and roasting to packaging and distribution.

Adept Procurement for Sustainable Growth

As Chief Procurement Officer, Ruggieri plays a pivotal role in securing the best possible deals for Lavazza. Her expertise in negotiation and supplier management ensures the company procures the highest quality ingredients, packaging materials, and equipment at competitive prices. This focus on cost optimization allows Lavazza to maintain its competitive edge while reinvesting in innovation and sustainability initiatives.

A Leader with Vision

Ruggieri’s leadership style is characterized by a blend of strategic vision and meticulous attention to detail. She fosters a collaborative environment where team members are empowered to contribute their expertise. At the same time, she provides clear direction and guidance, ensuring everyone is aligned with Lavazza’s overarching goals of quality and sustainability.

Ruggieri’s commitment to sustainability is particularly noteworthy. She recognizes the importance of ethical sourcing practices and environmental responsibility within the coffee industry. Under her leadership, Lavazza has implemented several initiatives to minimize its environmental impact, such as sustainable packaging solutions and responsible waste management practices.


A Force to be Reckoned With

Gabriella Ruggieri’s journey from Fiat Group to Lavazza is an inspiring testament to her unwavering dedication to quality and excellence. Her diverse skillset and leadership acumen have positioned her as a driving force behind Lavazza’s continued success. As the company strives to deliver the perfect cup of coffee to consumers worldwide, Ruggieri’s strategic vision and unwavering commitment to quality will undoubtedly ensure Lavazza remains a leader in the global coffee industry for years to come.