Charterhouse-backed Casa Optima appoints Javier Ferrán as Chair of the Board to strengthen its global leadership position

October 01, 2024

Charterhouse Capital Partners (“Charterhouse”), one of the longest-established private equity firms operating in Europe, today announces that portfolio company, Casa Optima (the “Company”), a leading global manufacturer of ingredients for the artisanal gelato, fine pastry and beverage industries, has appointed Javier Ferrán as Chair of its Board of Directors.

Javier Ferrán is currently the Chair of Diageo plc, a global leader in alcoholic beverages, and of International Consolidated Airlines Group, the parent company of British Airways. Previously, he served as CEO of Bacardi. 

Javier brings a wealth of expertise in the international consumer industry to the role, which will become effective from October 1^st.

Founded in 1984 and headquartered in Italy, Casa Optima exports high-quality ingredients to more than 140 countries around the world, serving over 30,000 gelato shops and 6,000 pastry shops via a large salesforce of 200 agents and strong network of local distributors.

With Ferrán's appointment as Chair of the Board, Casa Optima is poised to strengthen its global leadership position and seize new growth opportunities, both organically and through strategic acquisitions.

Since Charterhouse invested in the business in 2016, Casa Optima has undergone a significant transformation. Charterhouse has strengthened the Company’s management team across the C-Suite and has supported the Company’s growth strategy, with Casa Optima acquiring brands, expanding its product range, increasing its employee base and enhancing its R&D capabilities. Today, Casa Optima is a global, market-leading business with excellent growth prospects underpinned by continued strong performance.

Antonio di Lorenzo, Partner at Charterhouse, said:

“The appointment of Javier marks a pivotal moment in Casa Optima’s successful growth journey following Charterhouse’s investment. We believe his leadership will strategically enhance the Company’s ability to capitalise on significant future growth opportunities. This represents another milestone for Charterhouse in Italy, reinforcing our strong track record in Southern Europe, while demonstrating our proven ability to attract leading talent across portfolio companies and drive ambitious value creation plans.”

Javier Ferrán, Chair of the Board, commented:

"Casa Optima is a leading and well-managed group, outperforming the market average in terms of both growth and margins. I see tremendous opportunities, both organic and inorganic, to grow and consolidate the market in the future.”

Francesco Fattori, CEO of Casa Optima, added:

"We are thrilled to welcome Javier to our Board as Chair. His contribution will be invaluable due to his considerable experience which will complement an already highly engaged and high-performing team. This is an excellent opportunity to further strengthen our global expansion plans.”