On 4 June 2025, Professor Maurizio Bragagni OBE—Consul of the Republic of San Marino to the United Kingdom and Senior Visiting Fellow at Bayes Business School—delivered a thought-provoking lecture to students of the Family Business course at Bayes, where he proudly counts himself among its distinguished alumni.
The event marked the official introduction of Consul Bragagni’s latest book on Family Business—a compelling synthesis of personal experience and pragmatic insight into the challenges and opportunities of managing multi-generational enterprises. Grounded in his lifelong association with Tratos, the international cable manufacturing group founded in 1966, Professor Bragagni shared a deeply personal and globally relevant perspective on leadership, innovation, and corporate stewardship.
Beginning his career at Tratos in the most modest of roles—earning minimum wage as “his father’s son”—Professor Bragagni described a professional journey marked by discipline, lifelong learning, and service. Through academic pursuit, an expanding global network, and a deep commitment to social causes—including the founding of the Fondazione Esharelife—he developed a leadership ethos encapsulated in the principle:
“Start humble, learn deeply, live in the present”– Maurizio Bragagni
A key message of his address was the strategic imperative for family businesses to strike a balance between respecting tradition and the need to innovate. He candidly reflected on how rigid hierarchies and siloed governance once hindered progress at Tratos, and how under his leadership, the company evolved to embrace inclusivity, transparency, and agility.
For the Bayes audience, comprised of future business leaders, Consul Bragagni’s lecture offered more than just a case study; it served as a masterclass in navigating the interwoven complexities of legacy, leadership, and impact in a globalised economy. His reflections underscored values essential to both diplomacy and enterprise: adaptability, ethical governance, and long-term vision.
The Consulate of San Marino proudly recognises Professor Bragagni’s ongoing contributions to strengthening the bonds between the Republic of San Marino and the United Kingdom. Through his work in education, international business, and diplomacy, he exemplifies the vital role of principled leadership in today’s interconnected world.
