Fincantieri Marine Group (FMG), the American subsidiary of Italian shipbuilding giant Fincantieri, has named George A. Moutafis as its new chief executive officer, effective July 1, 2025. The appointment comes as the U.S. shipbuilding sector enters a critical phase of renewal, driven by increased federal focus on bolstering domestic naval capabilities.
Moutafis will lead FMG during what the company calls a “pivotal moment” for the U.S. defense industry. His appointment signals Fincantieri’s strategic intent to deepen its U.S. presence and reinforce its long-standing partnership with the U.S. Navy, the company said in a statement.
With more than 25 years of experience in defense, manufacturing, and industrial transformation, Moutafis most recently served as chief operating officer and general manager of Beretta USA Corp., and has previously held leadership roles within FMG, where he contributed to key Navy programs and innovation initiatives.
FMG, which operates four U.S. shipyards and employs about 3,000 people, has invested more than $800 million in American operations over the past 15 years. More than half of that investment was dedicated to modernizing the Marinette Marine shipyard in Marinette, Wis.
As the new U.S. administration emphasizes revitalizing the domestic defense industrial base, FMG’s leadership change is aimed at strengthening its role as a strategic partner to the U.S. Navy. The company is currently involved in key programs, including the construction of the Constellation-class frigates.
