With an outstanding track record in strategic consulting, technology, and banking innovation, Walter Rizzi joins as Country Manager for Digital Banks at BBVA Italy, reporting directly to Murat Kalkan, Global Head of the unit. His appointment marks a major step forward in BBVA’s European expansion strategy, with the aim of better addressing the specific needs of different customer segments: “Walter Rizzi’s extensive experience in the Italian market and his transformational leadership in the banking sector will be crucial in supporting BBVA Italy’s path toward sustainable and profitable growth,” remarked Kalkan.
Rizzi had previously served as Chief Product & Customer Officer and Deputy General Manager at Banca AideXa (Milan), where he headed up the development of data-driven, customer-focused banking products. He was also a partner at McKinsey and QuantumBlack in Milan, specializing in AI and digital transformation projects for the Italian financial sector.
His strong technical and strategic background makes him a key leader to drive the bank’s growth in Italy, aligning BBVA’s value proposition with the specific characteristics of the Italian market and cementing its position as an innovative digital banking institution.
According to Rizzi, “Leading BBVA’s development in Italy is an opportunity to build a differentiated digital proposition for customers looking for usability, simplicity, and responsive customer service. These customers have a set of needs that other institutions are not currently addressing. By combining the best of digital technology with universal banking services, we are in the best position to meet the financial needs of Italians.
