The 2026 edition of the Forbes Italia list dedicated to outstanding women celebrates managers, entrepreneurs, professionals, researchers, artists and leading figures in the economic and cultural sectors who, through their work, are helping to transform the country.
Among them are four alumnae of the University of Bologna: Sonia Bonfiglioli, Silvia Spronelli, Francesca Stefanelli and Francesca Muzio, whose professional journeys stand out for their impact and for their ability to innovate within their respective fields.
Although they come from very different sectors, their stories share a common thread: they have not simply led existing companies or organisations, but have contributed to transforming their areas of activity by introducing new models, enhancing expertise and building networks, while maintaining a constant focus on innovation and the future.
Sonia Bonfiglioli
A graduate in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Bologna, Sonia Bonfiglioli is Executive Chair of the Bonfiglioli Group, an international company among the leading manufacturers of gearmotors, drive systems and automation solutions for industry.
After completing her studies, she joined the company in 1992 and gained direct experience across all business functions, from production and engineering to sales and marketing. She has played a key role in the Group’s international growth, which today extends to more than 80 countries.
Throughout her career, she has received numerous awards, including the title of Cavaliere del Lavoro (Knight of Labour) and the EY Entrepreneur Of The Year Award. Since 2025, she has also served as President of Confindustria Emilia Area Centro, continuing to promote innovation, skills development and competitiveness within Italy’s manufacturing sector.
Silvia Spronelli
A graduate in Law from the University of Bologna, Silvia Spronelli is founder, President and CEO of SoloAffitti, the first Italian franchise exclusively specialised in residential property rentals.
What appeared in the 1990s to be an unconventional choice has evolved into one of the most important organisations in the sector: today, SoloAffitti has more than 300 affiliated offices and a network of over 1,000 Rental Property Managers.
Over the years, Silvia Spronelli has contributed to the professionalisation of the rental market by introducing new services and organisational models that have transformed leasing into a strategic asset within the Italian real estate sector.
Francesca Stefanelli
A graduate in Business Economics and Management from the University of Bologna, Francesca Stefanelli leads Stefauto, the historic Mercedes-Benz dealership founded in Bologna in 1952 and today a benchmark company in the automotive sector in Emilia-Romagna.
Representing the second generation of the family business, she has guided the company through a growth path based on innovation, sustainability and service quality, with particular attention to electric mobility, corporate welfare and support for the local entrepreneurial ecosystem.
In 2026, she was appointed General Representative of Confindustria Emilia for the 2026–2030 term.
Francesca Muzio
After earning a degree in Architecture and a Master’s degree in Business Administration from the University of Bologna, Francesca Muzio built an international career in architecture and interior design.
Founder and CEO of FM Architettura, she develops residential, hospitality and luxury yachting projects in several countries around the world.
Before establishing her own studio, she collaborated with leading names in architecture and design, including Renzo Piano and the Ferretti Group, gaining experience that today translates into projects characterised by the integration of design culture, Italian craftsmanship and an international vision.
The professional journeys of Sonia Bonfiglioli, Silvia Spronelli, Francesca Stefanelli and Francesca Muzio demonstrate that leadership does not only mean managing a company, but also imagining new paths for development, innovating established models and creating opportunities for people, communities and entire industries.
This recognition is a source of pride for the University of Bologna Alumni community, which sees their experiences as an example of expertise, vision and the ability to generate meaningful impact.
Read the Forbes article to learn more about the award-winning women.
