Aurora Importing taps former Tree of Life exec Francesco Mastruzzo for VP post

Aurora Importing & Distributing Ltd. has appointed Francesco Mastruzzo as vice-president, growth and market development. 

Mastruzzo joins the company from Tree of Life, where he most recently served as vice-president.

The company said the appointment supports national growth across its business and at its sister company, Edoko Food Importers. 

Mastruzzo brings a 20-year background in the food industry and his family’s business, Numage Trading, to his role at Aurora Importing.

He spent seven years at Tree of Life, previously overseeing band and supplier relations, marketing and new business. 

“Aurora and Edoko each bring valuable strengths to our business—from our people and  supplier partnerships to our customer relationships and regional knowledge,” said Joe Moscato, president of Aurora Importing & Distributing Ltd., in a press release. “There is significant opportunity in bringing those strengths together more effectively. Francesco will help us connect opportunities across both businesses, align our resources and turn our combined strengths into a balanced approach to serving our customers and brand partners.” 

Aurora Importing said Edoko’s presence in Western Canada is an important element in the group’s growth strategy, offering an opportunity to broaden distribution, share market insights and introduce suitable brands to new customers and channels.

Mastruzzo will work closely with Diana D’Elia, vice-president, marketing and business development, and the sales and marketing teams across both businesses. 

“I am excited to join Aurora and contribute to growth across both Aurora and Edoko,” Mastruzzo said. “The combined  knowledge, relationships and capabilities of these businesses offer a tremendous  foundation. I look forward to working with Joe, Diana and our teams to build stronger  connections between the businesses, expand opportunities for our brands and deliver lasting value to our partners across Canada.”