Casadei, the long-standing Italian shoe manufacturer, is undergoing a significant leadership change as it enters its third generation under the guidance of Arianna Casadei. Having previously held the position of director of marketing and communications, Arianna has been promoted to the role of CEO. As the daughter of Cesare Casadei, the creative director who has been shaping the brand’s style since the 1980s, Arianna is seen as the natural choice to lead Casadei into the future.
Cesare Casadei himself holds his daughter in high regard, praising her incredible talent and expertise in the business. He firmly believes that Arianna is the ideal person to continue growing the brand and preserving its unique identity. In her new position as CEO, Arianna will be responsible for expanding the business and embracing new challenges. Casadei has identified the strengthening of its online presence as a priority, while also consolidating its position in important markets such as the United States, the Middle East, and the Far East.
Arianna Casadei brings a wealth of experience to her new role, having grown up in the family business located in the San Mauro Pascoli shoe district in central Italy. Additionally, she has worked for renowned fashion houses including Alberta Ferretti and LuisaViaRoma. Holding a communications degree from the University of Bologna, Arianna has been involved in the business from a young age, accompanying her father to the factory and workshop during her high school days.
Officially joining Casadei in 2012 as the e-commerce and social media manager, Arianna played a pivotal role in digitalizing the business and contributed to the growth of the online sector, which now represents 10% of the brand’s turnover. Due to her exceptional work, she was promoted to the position of communications and marketing director in 2017, where she also managed special projects and maintained relationships with wholesale customers.
Recognized as a reputable luxury footwear brand, Casadei combines traditional craftsmanship with technological innovation. Over the past six and a half decades, the brand has garnered acclaim in the high-end footwear segment, particularly renowned for its iconic “Blade” pumps featuring a steel stiletto heel resembling a blade. Expanding its product range to include bags, Casadei experienced a 20% increase in sales in 2022 and aims to achieve a turnover of 30 million euros in 2023.
Casadei’s distribution network consists of 20 boutiques and over 200 multi-brand retailers worldwide. Europe serves as its primary market, accounting for approximately 30% of sales, followed by the United States, Asia, and the Middle East. In a strategic move to solidify its presence in the region, the brand recently opened a corner at Printemps in Doha. To support its growth, Casadei has also welcomed Maddalena Aspes, formerly from Missoni, as the head of its press office and Paola Rossi as the commercial director.
With Arianna Casadei leading the way, this luxury shoe manufacturer is poised to continue its success and solidify its position in the global market. The brand’s commitment to craftsmanship and innovation, combined with Arianna’s expertise and leadership, sets the stage for a promising future.
Useful links:
1. Official Casadei Website
2. Casadei’s Expansion Plans in Western Markets
