Our History

In the mid-20th century Chiesi began to scale its operations, diversify its treatment portfolio beyond individual products, and open a new factory with around fifty dedicated employees, all working towards a shared goal of creating a meaningful impact. 

In 1966 Giacomo Chiesi passed leadership to his two sons, Alberto and Paolo Chiesi. With their vision and drive, a new generation steps forward launching a vibrant chapter of innovation and growth.

1979 saw a groundbreaking innovation with the success of a cortisone-based treatment for asthma. This achievement marks a turning point, reinforcing Chiesi’s commitment to innovation in respiratory care and setting the stage for future breakthroughs.  

Chiesi’s 50th anniversary saw another significant milestone reached, with the launch of a life-saving treatment for preterm babies with respiratory distress syndrome.  

Chiesi’s mission to foster health equity globally took shape with the establishment of the Chiesi Foundation. The organization was founded with the goal of providing access to knowledge and care to patients suffering from respiratory diseases and neonatal diseases in low- and middle-income countries.  

Throughout the 2010s, Chiesi doubled down on its sustainability efforts, with the launch of a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) program in 2015 and a Sustainability Strategic Plan, our “WeAct Sustainability Manifesto”, in 2018.  

2018 also saw Chiesi adopt Benefit Corporation legal status in both Italy and the United States. The following year, Chiesi also committed to the principles that underpin the B Corp movement reinforcing its long-term focus on continuous improvement and a more equitable future.

A new decade brought further growth, as Chiesi expanded its focus on rare diseases, with the ambition of addressing the unique needs of people living with rare and ultra-rare conditions and improving access to treatment for patients around the world.

Chiesi has continued its commitment to sustainability throughout the 2020s with a commitment to achieve carbon neutrality by 2035 and approval for ambitious greenhouse gases (GHG) reduction targets from the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi). Chiesi further solidified its purpose-driven approach by globally closing the gender pay gap within the organization in 2022 and becoming a Benefit Corporation in Colombia and in France, (Société à Mission). 

Alberto Chiesi and Paolo Chiesi passed the torch to the next generation: Alessandro Chiesi took on the role of Chairperson, with Maria Paola Chiesi and Vice-Chairperson.  

Chiesi’s cutting-edge Biotech Center of Excellence officially opened in September 2024. Integrating the entire production process, from drug substance manufacturing to final packaging, the facility represents a significant investment in biologics and supports Chiesi’s efforts to advance innovative treatment options for patients worldwide.