Changing Company in Italy: Understanding Your Employment Contract to Navigate Your Next Career Move

In Italy, the majority of employment relationships are governed by a National Collective Labour Agreement (CCNL), which defines several fundamental aspects of the relationship between employer and employee. Understanding these elements means being able to manage the transition towards a new opportunity in an organised and professional manner.

The notice period represents the time required to organise the transition between the current employer and the new professional reality. It is not a barrier to change, but a mechanism that allows one to complete ongoing activities correctly, transfer knowledge and responsibilities, maintain a positive relationship with the previous employer, and plan an effective start within the new organisation.

The duration of the notice period depends on four principal factors that every professional should be aware of before entering into any negotiations with a prospective employer.

The CCNL Metalworking Industry is one of the most widely applicable contracts in Italy, covering professionals working in manufacturing, automotive, automation, engineering, plant engineering, and industrial technology sectors. The notice period varies according to the classification level and length of service.

The industrial sector continues to seek professionals capable of driving innovation and growth: Engineering Manager, Plant Manager, Operations Director, Supply Chain Manager, Technical Director, Quality Manager. A company change can serve as a career accelerator towards roles with greater responsibility, autonomy, and international visibility.

The CCNL Commerce and Tertiary Sector is one of the most widely applicable contracts for commercial companies, service firms, retail, organised distribution, and corporate functions. Many professionals seek new opportunities to expand managerial responsibilities, join more structured organisations, develop strategic competencies, and work within international environments.

Notice periods generally run from the 1st or 16th day of the month, as stipulated by the applicable CCNL.

The most sought-after profiles in this sector include: Sales Director, Marketing Manager, HR Manager, Finance Manager, and Business Development Manager.

The CCNL Chemical and Pharmaceutical Industry covers companies characterised by a strong technological, scientific, and innovative focus. Professionals and managers from this sector are particularly valued for their expertise in research and development, quality, regulatory affairs, manufacturing, supply chain, and industrialisation. The notice period depends on the professional category and classification level.

A comparative overview of notice periods for managerial and senior staff profiles under the principal national collective labour agreements applicable in Italy.

Values expressed in days. Data refers to the highest classification levels for each contract. Actual terms may vary depending on the specific contractual conditions applied.

Today the resignation process is digital and can be managed through the online procedure established by Italian legislation. An effective career change requires, above all, careful planning and a professional approach throughout the entire transition.

A professional who changes company does not interrupt their career journey: they evolve it. Handling one's resignation correctly is the first signal of professionalism towards the new employer and the current one alike.

A career is defined not solely by one's current role, but by the competencies built over the years and the ability to bring them into new environments. Many of the most significant managerial careers are born from a conscious and strategic change.

When a professional considers a new career opportunity, one of the key aspects to be aware of is the potential presence of a Non-Compete Clause. This agreement, between employer and employee, governs professional activities following the termination of the employment relationship.

It should not be viewed as a restriction, but as a contractual element to be assessed with full awareness — just like role, remuneration, and responsibilities — in order to make a strategic career move.

Many professionals in managerial or highly specialised roles are already familiar with this type of agreement, particularly in sectors where know-how and relationships are of critical importance.

A transparent approach facilitates the identification of effective solutions, valorising the experience gained and pinpointing opportunities in line with one's competencies.

The Non-Compete Clause is one factor to consider within a broader evaluation, in which the pursuit of new stimulus and growth remains the priority. At Prospecter Global Executive Search, we support managers and professionals through every phase, with confidentiality and strategic vision.

Every career opportunity must be assessed with care. Prospecter Global Executive Search supports managers and professionals through a confidential and consultative approach, helping them to understand which opportunities are genuinely aligned with their career path, how to leverage their competencies and experience, and which companies can represent their next step of growth.