Speaker Bio
Eng. Manlio Di Stefano serves as the Senior Strategic Advisor for Axiom Space, playing a crucial role in the company's efforts to expand its international network. Prior to joining Axiom Space, Mr. Di Stefano held distinguished roles, including Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and Member of the Italian Parliament of the Republic of Italy, a position he held from 2013 to 2022.
During his tenure at the Foreign Ministry, Mr. Di Stefano's responsibilities encompassed the internationalization of Italian companies, international trade (including participation in G7 and G20), energy, and space cooperation. In 2013, he assumed the role of group leader for the Five Star Movement, the leading Italian party, in the Foreign Affairs Commission.
Additionally, from 2013 to 2018, Mr. Di Stefano actively contributed to the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe. In this capacity, he served on the Committee on Migration, Refugees, and Displaced Persons, where he chaired the impactful Sub-Committee on Refugee and Migrant Children and Young People.
A Computer Engineering graduate from the Università degli Studi di Palermo, he began his professional journey with Accenture, serving as a Business Intelligence Analyst and developer, as well as an IT consultant across various sectors, including oil & gas, banking, finance, and consumer goods.
In addition to his professional endeavors, Mr. Di Stefano volunteered for an Italian NGO operating in the Democratic Republic of Congo and in Guatemala, focusing on projects related to sustainable development.
Beyond his professional commitments, Manlio is a dedicated husband and father to a splendid daughter.