Riccardo Zucca, Investor Relations, Fincantieri

In order to help current students and recent graduates to find their way in the working world, many of our alumni shared their career story. Here the story of Riccardo Zucca, Investor Relations at Fincantieri in Trieste (I). USI Degree: Master in European Studies in Investor Relations and Financial Communication, 2024.

How did you start your career?

I started my career in July 2024, immediately after completing my final university exam at the end of June. Just one week later, I relocated to Trieste to begin an internship in Investor Relations at Fincantieri S.p.A., marking a rapid transition from academia to the corporate environment. The six-month internship gave me the opportunity to gain first-hand exposure to the dynamics of a listed company and to better understand the strategic importance of Investor Relations within a complex, international industrial group. It was a highly formative experience that allowed me to develop both technical knowledge and professional discipline. In January 2025, at the end of the internship, I was offered a full-time position. I am now part of the Investor Relations team, continuing to grow professionally within the company.

Why did you choose a career at Fincantieri?

I chose to pursue a career at Fincantieri S.p.A. because it offered the right combination of international exposure, professional growth, and strong alignment with my academic background. Fincantieri operates in a highly international environment, which provides constant interaction with global markets and stakeholders—an aspect I found particularly stimulating. In addition, I was positively impressed by the company’s clear commitment to developing young talent and offering structured growth opportunities. Most importantly, the role in Investor Relations was perfectly aligned with my Master’s specialization, allowing me to directly apply my academic training in a strategic and corporate context.

What is your current role/duties?

I currently work in Investor Relations at Fincantieri S.p.A., a highly strategic function that operates closely with top management and collaborates across the entire organization to ensure that financial and price-sensitive information is managed consistently and communicated with clarity and compliance. At the same time, Investor Relations oversees structured and transparent dialogue with the financial community, fostering a genuine two-way communication process. By integrating analytical rigor with strategic communication, the function helps align internal decision-making with external expectations. The ultimate objective is to provide the market with a clear and accurate understanding of the company’s strategy and performance, thereby supporting credibility, innovation, and a fair valuation over the long term.

In your opinion, what are the qualities necessary for a successful career at Fincantieri?

A successful career at Fincantieri S.p.A. requires motivation, an innovative mindset, and the skills to apply them effectively.

What positive aspects and qualities meant most to you during the study programme you attended?

The most valuable aspects of my programme at USI – Università della Svizzera italiana were the guidance of professors who are also industry experts, the motivating and energetic environment, and the strong university community. The professors provided not only technical knowledge but also practical insights and key drivers from their own experience, giving a clear perspective on how to succeed in Investor Relations. Combined with motivated peers and a supportive network, this created an inspiring environment that enriched both learning and professional growth.

What competences and skills acquired in your USI Study Program have been useful/are useful to your professional career?

During my USI study programme, I acquired a solid foundation in communication, Investor Relations, marketing, and law, all of which have been directly useful in my professional career. Equally valuable was the emphasis on creativity and practical problemsolving, fostered through numerous group projects and hands-on activities across the Master’s courses in ESIR. These experiences helped me develop teamwork, analytical thinking, and the ability to approach complex challenges from multiple perspectives—skills that I apply daily in my role in Investor Relations.

What is your advice to USI students entering the job market?

My advice to USI students entering the job market is to stay curious and hungry for knowledge, pursue what truly interests you, and above all, always be yourself.