Calhoun, Ga.—Mohawk Industries’ chairman and chief executive officer Jeff Lorberbaum was awarded the 2017 Leonardo International Prize by Italian President Sergio Mattarella during a March 2 ceremony at Rome’s historic Quirinal Palace.
Bestowed each year by Italy’s Leonardo Committee, the Leonardo International Prize spotlights individuals who have distinguished themselves by facilitating cultural and business partnerships between their native countries and Italy.
“I am honored to receive this award on behalf of our entire team,” Lorberbaum said. “This special recognition reflects the outstanding work being done throughout our company by thousands of talented, dedicated people. Everyone at Mohawk is delighted to be a part of the Italian business community, and I am grateful to the Leonardo Committee and President Mattarella for promoting an environment where businesses can flourish.”
In 2013, Mohawk Industries acquired the Marazzi Group, one of the leading international Italian-based ceramic manufacturers. During the past four years, the company has invested substantially in technology to create innovative products and expand production capacity at Marazzi’s three Italian facilities.
The award citation praised Mohawk Industries as “an example of how foreign investments can strengthen international competitiveness and the innovation of Italian companies.”