Escape to tuscany - Members Only - Brief Article

Chief Executive, The, Feb, 2002 by Jennifer Gilbert

CHIEFS IN NEED OF a little rest and renaissance can find a week of uninterrupted quiet time in Florence, Italy, on a retreat for corporate soul-searchers called A Tuscan Sabbatical. Professional therapists lead participants during fall or spring getaways as they practice yoga, cook, write in journals and learn about Italian art and history.

A Tuscan Sabbatical attracts CEOs even though the $5,500 program isn't formally advertised, says its 58-year-old founder, Joe D'Arrigo.

"A CEO is a very lonely person," says D'Arrigo, whose 30-year career includes a stint as CEO of an employee benefits consulting company. "When it's your company you can't tell anyone you're scared or unsure of your decisions. There's a reason these guys get paid a lot of money."

Paul Verrochi, a 52-year-old entrepreneur, went in 2000, the first time the program was offered. "It gets you to stop and think," says Verrochi, who has held several CEO positions in his 31-year career. He is currently managing partner at Boston investment firm Exel Holdings. "People in that position just don't have time to think about themselves. [They] lose sight of what's important in life, [like] family and health."

The program changed Verrochi's management style, he says, teaching him to find satisfaction in mentoring employees, rather than in taking on full responsibility. "I am a little more at peace than I used to be," he says.