Gerardo Patacconi, the new Head of Operations at the International Coffee Organization, has taken up his post. Mr Patacconi previously held the position as Director (OiC) of the Department of Agri-Business Development at the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (Unido), where he led the development and implementation of industrial and commercial policies, strategies and projects in over 60 countries with a focus on agro-industries, as well as public-private partnerships and buyers-suppliers sustainability projects with retailers and manufacturers.
In his new position, along with managing the Operations Division of the Organization, Mr Patacconi will lead on the implementation of the ICO’s Programme of Activities and new Five-Year Action Plan.
Gerardo Patacconi said: “I am honoured to take on this new role. The ICO plays an extremely important role for the coffee industry from small holder farmers to large manufacturers and I am fully committed to building on my experience and network. Under the leadership of Mr Jose Setté, the Executive Director, and together with the ICO’s dedicated staff, we will work very hard to respond to the needs of our Members and the wider challenges facing the international coffee sector today, with a strong emphasis on partnerships and on mobilizing resources to increase economic sustainability.“
