(Washington, D.C. – April 4, 2024) – The National Italian American Foundation (NIAF) proudly
announces the appointment of Paolo Messa as its Executive Vice President of International
Relations and Strategic Partnerships.
Messa brings over 20 years of distinguished experience working at senior levels within major Italian
institutions, corporations, and government entities. Most recently, he served as the Chairman of
the Board of Directors of Leonardo US Corporation, and he currently holds the position of
Nonresident Senior Fellow at the Europe Center of the Atlantic Council.
“We are honored to have Paolo Messa join NIAF in this crucial role enhancing our international
relations and strategic partnerships,” said NIAF President Robert Allegrini. “His extensive
background working with influential Italian institutions, companies, and government bodies makes
him an ideal ambassador to represent NIAF’s mission of promoting ties between the United States
and Italy.”
As Executive Vice President, Messa will lead NIAF’s International Relations team and lead eWorts to
organize programs, events, and initiatives aimed at strengthening business, political, and cultural
connections between the two nations.
Prior to his tenure at Leonardo, Messa served as the Executive Director of the Center for American
Studies in Rome and sat on the board of RAI, Italy’s public broadcasting company. He founded the
respected foreign policy publication Formiche in 2004. An author and professor, Messa holds
memberships with prestigious think tanks such as the Atlantic Council and the European Council
on Foreign Relations.
“I am thrilled to join NIAF and put my experience to work furthering cooperation and exchanges
between the United States and Italy,” said Messa. “These two nations share an enduring bond
through millions of Italian Americans well represented in the U.S. Congress and broader
institutions. NIAF plays a vital role in nurturing that special relationship across business,
government, culture, and more.”
Messa will be based in Washington D.C. and will frequently travel to Italy.
