Umberto Marconi

As VP of Marketing at BelGioioso Cheese, I lead brand strategy, market expansion, and consumer engagement for a leading specialty cheese brand. Key achievements include launching new product lines that drove sales growth, guiding a brand refresh to elevate recognition and loyalty, and introducing initiatives that align with evolving consumer values, including sustainability. By implementing data-driven marketing, I’ve improved ROI and sharpened consumer insights. Collaborating closely with Sales, R&D, and Operations, I foster alignment across teams, building a cohesive and agile brand experience. This role has deepened my expertise in strategic planning, brand growth, and sustainable market expansion in the food industry.

As a Board Member of the Italy America Chamber of Commerce in New York, I supported initiatives to strengthen Italian-American business relations and foster trade opportunities between Italy and the U.S. I collaborated with leaders across industries to promote Italian enterprises in the American market, advising on strategic partnerships, regulatory insights, and market expansion efforts. This role deepened my understanding of international trade dynamics and cross-border business development.

As Vice President of Pomì USA, I directed all daily operations and marketing strategy, shaping the company’s U.S. market presence. I developed and implemented a new brand strategy, expanded the product portfolio with a line for AmazonGo, and launched Pomì’s first Amazon Store, boosting e-commerce growth. My responsibilities spanned marketing, communications, trade show strategy, and market positioning, as well as U.S. import operations, supply chain logistics, and financial planning. I also optimized distribution channels, coordinated the opening of a new distribution center in Florida, and supervised the U.S. sales team to drive consistent growth. Working closely with HQ in Italy on institutional and regulatory matters, I enhanced cross-functional synergy and operational efficiency, building a strong foundation in strategic planning, brand development, and end-to-end business management.

In my role at the Italian Trade Commission, I coordinated “The Extraordinary Italian Taste” government campaign, enhancing the visibility of Italian food and wine in the U.S. market. I collaborated with advertising and media partners, liaising with ITA HQ in Rome to develop impactful trade, media, and consumer events. My work included managing special policy projects that involved analyzing FSMA and FSVP legislation affecting Italian imports. I organized successful trade missions to Italy, including participation in EXPO Milano 2015, and supported interagency efforts for Italian representation at key market events. This experience strengthened my expertise in international trade, policy analysis, and cross-cultural marketing initiatives.

As Director of Institutional Relations for the Italian pre-clearance program in New York, I collaborated with European, Italian, and American government agencies to enhance market access for Italian products. I managed compliance, liaised with trade associations, and conducted market research and analysis, ensuring effective navigation of U.S. regulations for Italian exporters.

During my tenure at Assomela, I negotiated the first Italian pre-clearance program, significantly enhancing access for Italian apples to the U.S. market. I managed international relations and communications, serving as a key representative at EU policy and technical committees, where I addressed critical issues in Trade, Agriculture, Health, and Sustainability. I coordinated advocacy efforts with EU partners, producing position papers on market access and related topics. Additionally, I oversaw the annual production forecast for Italy, managed EU grants, and directed international promotional activities across Europe, Africa, Asia, and the Americas. My work fostered collaboration within the industry and strengthened Italy's global presence in the apple market.

EU Study abroad program 'Erasmus'