Fiat Chrysler Automobiles CEO to deliver keynote address at fundraiser for Italian earthquake relief fund

TORONTO, May 8, 2017 /CNW/ - Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) CEO Sergio Marchionne will deliver the keynote talk to the who's who of Canadian business, finance and politics on Friday, May 12, 2017. The Italian-Canadian automotive executive will be in Toronto for "Pranzo con Sergio Marchionne/Lunch with Sergio Marchionne", a fundraiser organized in support of The Italy Earthquake Relief Fund (TIERF).

More than 600 guests are expected to attend the event, which will be held at Montecassino Hotel and Event Centre in Downsview from 12:30 pm to 2pm. 

"It is an absolute honour to have Mr. Marchionne here with us," says Sam Ciccolini, co-chair of the event organizing committee. "Mr. Marchionne is a legend in the world of business and finance, and we look forward to hearing his thoughts on the challenges facing the automotive sector, specifically in regard to disruptive innovations that are expected to transform the industry in the years to come."

Born in Abruzzo, Italy and growing up and educated in Toronto and Windsor, Canada, Mr. Marchionne has an extensive list of achievements and credentials. Also a lawyer and a certified general accountant, the accomplished executive is best-known for his turnaround of Fiat, and later Chrysler, which ultimately led to the creation of the global automaker FCA. Known for his finely-tuned business instincts and straight-talking style, he is a rare leader who runs multiple companies including Ferrari, CNH Industrial and SGS, while lending his time and expertise to several boards such as Philip Morris International and J.P. Morgan International Council.

"We are grateful that half a million dollars has been raised at this early stage, and are hopeful that we will at least double this amount with our Pranzo con Sergio Marchionne event," says The Hon. Con Di Nino, a former Canadian senator and also co-chair of the event organizing committee.

The Italy Earthquake Relief Fund was created by a number of community organizations and businesses in the days following the destructive earthquakes in central Italy in late August 2016. In co-operation with groups across Canada, TIERF has committed that the funds it raises will be put towards something best-suited to and determined in consultation with the affected communities.

Event details

Location:	Montecassino Hotel and Event Centre
	3710 Chesswood Drive, Main Ballroom
Timing:	Cocktail reception beginning at 11:30 a.m.
	Lunch beginning at 12:30 p.m.
	Mr. Marchionne is slated to speak between 1:30 and 2:00 p.m.

About The Italy Earthquake Relief Fund
The Italy Earthquake Relief Fund was established to provide a legacy in support of the people and communities affected by the massive earthquakes in central Italy on August 24 and 25, 2016. The initiative has been organized by Italian Canadian organizations, businesses and community leaders: the Canadian Italian Business & Professional Association (CIBPA), Centro Scuola e Cultura Italiana, Italian Chamber of Commerce of Ontario (ICCO), IC Savings, National Congress of Italian-Canadians, Order Sons of Italy, the Villa Charities family of organizations and other members and leaders from the Italian community and friends of central Italy. For more information, please visit www.theitalyearthquakerelieffund.com.

Donations can be made in-person at any of the seven branches of IC Savings in the Greater Toronto Area , or online at www.theitalyearthquakerelieffund.com

Access to this event is restricted. Media must RSVP in writing and include their name, title, e-mail and mobile and/or office number by close of business Thursday for security screening. 

SOURCE IC Savings

Pal Di Iulio, Volunteer, "Pranzo" Event Media Relations, M: [phone], E: [email protected]