Arzuffi Faces – Head, heart, and craft: the story of Maurizio Riccobene
In a technological world like ours, it’s important to remember that it’s people, with their dedication and passion, who drive every company’s progress and innovation. At Arzuffi, we don’t settle for excellence in production alone. We aim to create a unique workplace where every individual feels part of a winning team and is valued for their contribution. With this goal in mind, Arzuffi Faces was born, a feature dedicated to the stories of our team members. Through their experiences and enthusiasm, we want to give a voice to the beating heart of our company and highlight the fundamental role each person plays in achieving shared success. Why Arzuffi Faces? Because every person is valuable: At Arzuffi, we believe that each individual’s skills and dedication are essential elements for growth and innovation. Because sharing inspires: Learning about our colleagues’ stories helps us bond as a team, share hobbies, and learn from each other. Because success is a team effort: Behind every excellent service is a team of exceptional people working together with passion and expertise. In short, Arzuffi Faces is not just a column—it’s a way to celebrate the talent that makes Arzuffi a unique company. Maurizio: from childhood to adulthood “We had joy, we had fun, we had seasons in the sun…” sang Terry Jacks in 1974. A bittersweet melody that captures life in all its shades: even in farewells, hardship, and tough moments, there’s a sense of lightness, almost poetry. In that same year, on November 29, in Milan, Maurizio Riccobene was born. And just like that song, he learned to navigate life’s seasons with a smile and incredible strength. He grew up among machine tools and technical drawings pinned up in the workshop. An only child, he helped his father from a young age in the family precision turning business: watching, dismantling, experimenting, listening. It was there he developed the curious eye that would accompany him throughout his life, and it didn’t go unnoticed. After graduating as a Mechanical Technician, a teacher saw his maturity and skill and opened a door that would change his path: he invited him to join him in the classroom. And so, Maurizio became a teacher, not by chance, but by vocation. He taught for almost 10 years with a passion deeply rooted in real-life experience. He brought the workshop into the classroom, the hard work, the satisfaction of a job well done. And he trained hundreds of students with his practical, down-to-earth style. At the same time, he continued working in the family workshop, running the business as a small entrepreneur. These were intense years, balancing teaching and hands-on business management. A dual role that enriched and shaped him, blending theory with practice, mind with hands. Decisions that matter For many years, Maurizio ran the family business with determination and a spirit of sacrifice. During that time, he built not only mechanical parts but also strong relationships, a deep sense of duty, and a clear vision of collaborative work. In 2005, his son was born, undoubtedly the happiest moment of his life. When he speaks of it, his voice softens, his eyes light up, and a memory flickers that still moves him deeply. But life, right then, put him to the test: a serious illness was diagnosed. “I had a young son, a family, employees depending on me. I had to make it.” And with the fighting spirit that defines him, he did. More than once. Then came the 2009 economic crisis, yet another challenge. He did everything he could to save his company: invested energy, time, and courage. But sometimes, even total dedication isn’t enough to change the course of events. He had to close. Job offers poured in, even from abroad—prestigious and well-paid ones. But Maurizio chose to stay in Italy. “My son needed me every day. I couldn’t leave.” It was a heartfelt decision, one that speaks of priorities, love, and responsibility. A quiet but powerful gesture that defines his idea of life. With this rich path behind him, Maurizio didn’t give up. He reinvented himself. He brought his experience to various companies, always with his practical approach and ability to build trust. And eventually, he arrived at Arzuffi, where all of this found a home and continuity. Maurizio at Arzuffi When Maurizio joined Arzuffi, he took on the role of Production Manager. It’s a key position requiring experience, balance, and strong interpersonal skills. He interpreted it his own way: not by imposing, but by building. Not chasing titles, but focusing on value. “I don’t play the boss, I try to be a colleague who’s not afraid to get his hands dirty.” With a direct, hands-on approach, he integrated into an already well-organized, functional reality, and helped strengthen team spirit. He fosters dialogue, collaboration, and shared responsibility, quickly becoming a point of reference for his coworkers. Because with him, you can talk, share ideas, find solutions, and feel part of a workplace where everyone has a voice and value. Living life to the full, every day When we ask him for advice to younger people, Maurizio replies: “You’ve only got one life, and you never know how long it’ll be. Live it to the fullest.” It’s not just a phrase, it’s how he lives. Maurizio works, lives, loves, and builds by always giving everything he has. Those who work or live alongside him can feel that energy. And it’s impossible not to be inspired by it. Thank you, Maurizio, for sharing your story with us! Who will be the next face in our Arzuffi Faces feature? Stay tuned to find out, and remember: behind every great company, there’s always a great person!