About Us
Focus Europe, founded in 2007, supports local authorities in accessing European funds, promoting territorial development.
With offices in Italy, Spain and Belgium, we facilitate dialogue with community institutions, promoting the planning, training and internationalization of SMEs. Since 2024 we have been a Third Sector Entity, known as FOCUS EUROPE ETS - THE NETWORK OF EUROPEAN TERRITORIES .
The associated institutions are represented in the Community institutions: at the European Parliament through information and training processes; at the European Commission through co-financing of pilot projects; at the partners of the Community Europe through programmatic comparisons on the management and valorization of territorial resources.
ORGANIGRAM
Board of Directors
GIUSEPPE CAPPAI
President
President of Focus Europe since 2013, always re-elected unanimously thanks to the excellent work done, Giuseppe Cappai began his political career at just 16 years old in 1977, entering the headquarters of the Christian Democrats (DC) in Sant'Andrea Frius. His first election to the city council dates back to 1983, the year in which he was appointed city councilor for education, culture, sports and youth policies, a role he held until 1988. After a 13-year break for work reasons, in 2001 he was elected mayor of Sant'Andrea Frius, a position he held successfully until 2016, being reconfirmed in 2006 and 2011.
Since 2016, Giuseppe Cappai has been a majority municipal councilor. He has held significant roles as president of the Union of Municipalities of Gerrei from 2010 to 2012 and member of the Council of Local Authorities of Sardinia from 2006 to 2016, where he served as deputy vice president. He was also a regional director of ANCI (National Association of Italian Municipalities) until May 2024 and was a member of the national council of ANCI. Currently, he is a member of the regional council of AICCRE (Italian Association for the Council of Municipalities and Regions of Europe).
Giuseppe Cappai, with his long and rich political experience, is a key figure for Focus Europe, contributing with his expertise and dedication to the development of local autonomies and European cooperation.
HON. FABIO PORTA
Vice President
Sociologist graduated with honors from the University of Rome "La Sapienza" and specialized in Adult Education at the University of Florence. He began his political and trade union career in the 80s, holding important roles in organizations such as UIL and participating in international cooperation projects in Latin America.
First elected to the Chamber of Deputies in 2008, re-elected in 2013 and 2022, he was a member of the Foreign and Community Affairs Commission and President of the Permanent Committee for Italians in the World.
Fabio Porta is known for his commitment to relations between Italy and Latin America, having coordinated several training and cooperation projects. He is President of the Italy-Brazil Friendship Association and Vice President of ICPE (Institute for Cooperation with Foreign Countries). His vice presidency of Focus Europe is of particular importance, as it strengthens dialogue and cooperation between local authorities and community institutions, promoting territorial development and European integration. His experience and commitment are fundamental to the success of Focus Europe initiatives.
EFISIO DE MURU
Secretary - Advisor
Efisio De Muru, born in Cagliari in 1970, has a long political and administrative career. Since his youth, he has been actively involved in politics and student movements of the Cagliari left. He was a member of the Italian Communist Youth Federation (FGCI) and trained at the Communist Party school in Frattocchie, Rome, to continue his political career in the Democrats of the Left where he also served as Provincial Secretary of Cagliari, in 2007 he was among the founders of the Democratic Party.
De Muru has held important roles as councilor and President of the Municipal Council of Capoterra, and metropolitan councilor of Cagliari. At the national level, he was appointed head of the national department of Island Policies of the Democratic Party, a position that saw him engaged in crucial issues such as the right to mobility and the use of community resources and currently holds the role of Coordinator of the Regional Secretariat of the PD Sardinia.
De Muru, former Regional Secretary of AICCRE Sardinia, in 2020 was elected National Vice President of AICCRE (Association for the Council of Municipalities and Regions of Europe), where he continues to work to strengthen collaboration between local authorities and European institutions.
His presence in Focus Europe is particularly significant, as he brings his vast experience in community and island policies, helping to develop projects that promote dialogue and cooperation between local authorities and European Union institutions.
FABIO AMATO
Reviewer
Fabio Amato, originally from Caltagirone, is an experienced accountant who has dedicated his career to promoting financial integrity and transparency in accounting operations. With a strong background in accounting and auditing, Fabio is known for his attention to detail and dedication to professional integrity.
Since the creation of Focus Europe ETS in 2024, Fabio Amato has served as the association's auditor, becoming a key figure in the organization's financial governance. In his role, Fabio is responsible for verifying and assessing the accuracy of financial statements and accounting records, ensuring that all financial transactions comply with applicable laws and regulations.
His work is essential to promote financial transparency within Focus Europe ETS, facilitating access to relevant information for members and stakeholders. Fabio also provides advice on best accounting and financial practices, helping to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the association's operations.
Thanks to his experience and integrity, Fabio Amato is a key element in ensuring that Focus Europe ETS operates with the highest standards of transparency and financial accountability, thus supporting the association's mission to promote territorial development and European integration.
MARIO BRUNO
Advisor
Born in Sassari, he has a long and prestigious career in local and regional politics. He was mayor of Alghero from 2014 to 2019 and served as a regional councilor in Sardinia. During his term as mayor, and beyond, he promoted numerous initiatives aimed at sustainable development and the creation of local businesses, with particular attention to young people and innovation.
He is co-founder of the Maestrale Association - The Force of Ideas, through which he started the "Progetto Città", a training school for sustainable development and business creation, aimed primarily at young people.
As Vice President of Focus Europe, Mario Bruno actively contributes to the mission of the association, facilitating dialogue between local authorities and community institutions, and promoting initiatives for cooperation and territorial development. His administrative experience and his commitment to social inclusion and sustainable development are fundamental to the success of Focus Europe's activities.
FRANCESCA FADDA
Advisor
Francesca Fadda was born in Cagliari on October 14, 1986 and is currently the mayor of Maracalagonis. Elected on October 26, 2020, she was supported by the civic list “Vivere Maracalagonis”. Daughter of the historic mayor Mario Fadda (formerly a councilor of Focus Europe), she continued the family commitment to local politics, focusing on issues of community development and social inclusion.
Her leadership is distinguished by her attention to local needs, the promotion of cultural and social initiatives, and her commitment to transparent and participatory governance. Francesca Fadda is also a member of the Metropolitan Conference of Cagliari, where she contributes to decisions that affect the entire metropolitan area.
As a Focus Europe Advisor, Fadda brings his administrative experience and strong community ties, helping to strengthen relationships between local authorities and community institutions, and promoting territorial development and social inclusion projects.
CHRISTIAN STEVELLI
Advisor
Christian Stevelli, born in Cagliari on April 24, 1971, has extensive experience in business administration and local politics. Raised in Cagliari, he moved to Quartu Sant'Elena in 2001, where he lives with his family. Graduated as an Aeronautical Expert, he served in the military in the Defence Unit Group of the Defence General Staff.
Stevelli studied Marketing and Communication, Business Management and Management Capacity Development at the Institute of Training for Businesses of Sardinia. He has managed important transport companies, including Essemme Srl and Royal Tour Srl, and was a member of the Board of Directors of Sogaer Spa, the airport company of Cagliari.
In addition to his professional career, Stevelli has been actively involved in sports, playing water polo at a competitive level and holding managerial roles at the Rari Nantes club in Cagliari. He has also contributed to sports promotion as Commissioner and President of the Centro Sportivo Educativo Nazionale (CSEN).
As Advisor to Focus Europe, Christian Stevelli brings a combination of administrative experience and passion for local development, promoting projects that aim to improve funding opportunities and cooperation between local authorities and European institutions.
LEONARDO VICINO
Advisor
Leonardo Vicino, born on June 30, 1975 in Gravina in Puglia, is currently Councilor for Budget and Planning of the Municipality of Gravina in Puglia.
As a Focus Europe Advisor Vicino plays an important role in promoting territorial development and European integration. His commitment extends to the creation of synergies between local authorities and EU institutions, facilitating access to European funds and the implementation of projects that enhance local resources. His administrative experience and knowledge of the Apulian territory are essential to ensure that Focus Europe initiatives effectively respond to the needs of local communities. His active participation in projects such as the protection of the Bosco Comunale Difesa Grande through an agreement with the Regional Agency for Irrigation and Forestry Activities (ARIF) demonstrates his dedication to the protection and enhancement of the local natural heritage.
The importance of his role as Councilor lies in his ability to represent and support the interests of local entities, promoting collaboration and the exchange of good practices at European level. This commitment contributes not only to local development, but also to the cohesion and growth of the entire Focus Europe network, strengthening the participation of Apulian communities in European decision-making processes and improving access to EU funding.
OPERATIONAL STAFF
FABIO ROCCUZZO
Executive Director
Fabio Roccuzzo began his working career as a Municipal Councilor of Caltagirone in 1992, continuing as a Councilor of the Regional Province of Catania until 2008. He has held numerous important positions, including Vice President of the Provincial Council of Catania and member of the National Directorate of UPI (Unione Province d'Italia).
Since 2014, Fabio has been Director of Focus Europe, where he coordinates the network's activities, manages European projects and takes care of external relations. He has served as Project Manager for several EU-funded projects, such as "Vot-EU", "A Better Europe" and "Euromine", significantly contributing to the promotion of civic participation and sustainable development at local and regional level.
Among his most relevant experiences, Fabio coordinated the project "Young Work and Territory in Sardinia" and the project "Romanesque Enhancement of the Basilicas of Ardara, Borutta and Codrogianos", demonstrating exceptional skills in project management and communication.
Fabio Roccuzzo holds a Master in Europroject Management in Venice, specializing in design and European cooperation. His skills include management of associated services, tourism, cultural and topographic promotion, and institutional relations in the context of the Euro-Mediterranean partnership.
He is an expert in European policies and relations with European institutions, with a solid knowledge in the management of international cooperation and local development.
As Director of Focus Europe, Fabio Roccuzzo plays a crucial role in promoting European integration and dialogue between local authorities and EU institutions. His extensive experience and commitment in managing EU-funded projects have helped strengthen Focus Europe's position as a leader in the field of territorial development and European cooperation. His leadership is essential to ensure that the association continues to offer effective and innovative support to local authorities and communities in accessing European resources.
FRANCESCO GAGLIARDI
Deputy Director
Francesco Gagliardi, born on 1 October 1974 in Matera, has been the Deputy Director and Administrative Manager of Focus Europe since 2013. With a solid academic background and extensive experience in financial and administrative management, Francesco is a crucial figure for the governance and operational efficiency of the association.
Francesco started his career at Focus Europe as Head of the Administrative Office and Project Reporting. His responsibilities include technical and administrative support to members, financial management of EU projects and coordination of activities related to the Covenant of Mayors membership.
Among the many projects managed, Francesco played a key role in the projects "MIDEMP", "EU-TRACE", "ENPCOM" and "Vot-EU", demonstrating excellence in administrative management and reporting. His expertise contributed significantly to the success of projects such as "A4EUS - Action 4 Europe of Solidarity" and "ResiliEurope - Islands Territories Citizens Resiliency".
Francesco holds a degree in Political Science with a focus on International Economics from the University of Bari, as well as a Master's in Corporate Communication, Public Relations and Marketing. His skills range from financial and administrative management to the design and reporting of community projects.
His experience and dedication are essential to ensure that the association operates with the highest standards of governance, supporting territorial development and European integration.
Francesco's contribution to the financial management and reporting of European projects has allowed Focus Europe to successfully implement numerous initiatives, strengthening the association's position as a leader in supporting territorial development and European cooperation.
CAESAR FEAST
General Secretariat - Communications Manager
Cesare Festa, born on 22 February 1988 in Benevento, has been the Head of Communication and General Secretariat of Focus Europe since 2013. With extensive experience in communication, administration and project management, he has contributed significantly to the development and growth of the association. His expertise in creating and managing digital content has been key to the success of numerous community projects.
Cesare has managed the communication aspects for almost all the funded projects, among which the "Vot-EU" project stands out. This project, co-financed by the European Parliament, saw Focus Europe as the protagonist of communication actions in support of the European Elections that took place from 23 to 26 May 2019. His role was crucial to ensure widespread and effective dissemination of information, helping to increase awareness and citizen participation in the elections.
In addition to his communication activities, Cesare supports the organization of events and seminars related to the association's projects, contributing to their drafting and coordination.
With his dedication and expertise, Cesare continues to be an essential pillar for Focus Europe, contributing to its success and its mission of promoting territorial development and European integration.
COLLABORATORS AND CONSULTANTS
DANIELE GIZZI
Senior Project Manager
Daniele Gizzi, graduated in International Relations with a degree from the University of Pisa, is an experienced Senior Project Manager with extensive experience in managing projects funded by the European Commission and other regional, national and international funding sources.
Since 2010, Daniele has worked as a project manager and consultant for various Italian public bodies, including Municipalities, Provinces and Regions. His career is characterized by extensive involvement in international development cooperation projects in the Middle East, Balkans, Maghreb, Eastern Europe and Sub-Saharan Africa. These projects, funded by regional, national, European and private programs, have allowed him to acquire a solid experience in coordination, financial reporting, monitoring, training and communication activities.
Since 2013, Daniele has been responsible for training on Direct Funding of the European Commission for the Association of Local Authorities – Focus Europe. In this role, he has contributed to improving the skills of numerous local authorities in accessing and managing European funds.
As Senior Project Manager of Focus Europe, Daniele Gizzi is responsible for project management and coordination, ensuring that activities are carried out efficiently and in compliance with funding regulations. His experience and expertise are crucial to the success of the association's projects, contributing to territorial development and international cooperation.
Daniele Gizzi continues to play a crucial role in promoting European integration and facilitating access to European funding for local authorities, through targeted training and high-level technical support. His dedication and professionalism ensure that Focus Europe can successfully pursue its mission of promoting sustainable development and international cooperation.
MANUEL LEIVA LOPEZ
Environment and Innovation Manager
Manuel Leiva López, graduated in Physics from the University of Granada (Spain), is an expert with more than 20 years of professional experience in managing innovation processes and design methodologies for the development of innovative solutions in public services, both at central and territorial levels.
Manuel holds a Diploma of Advanced Studies (DEA) in the Doctorate in Materials Physics from the UNED University (Spain) and a Master in Direction and Operations Management in Global Company from the same university. His advanced training has allowed him to acquire in-depth skills in project management and operational management, with special attention to technological innovation and sustainability.
Throughout his career, Manuel has accumulated extensive experience in managing innovation processes and developing design methodologies for public services. He has worked on numerous projects related to demographic, environmental and smart cities services, demonstrating exceptional ability in coordinating and monitoring development groups in information technologies.
Manuel is a recognized expert in renewable energy, energy efficiency, territorial development and climate change. He has contributed significantly to the promotion of clean energy and efficient management of energy resources, collaborating with various public administrations and international organizations.
As a key member of Focus Europe, Manuel Leiva López plays a key role in promoting innovation and sustainability in the association's projects. His experience and expertise in information technologies and renewable energies are key to developing innovative and sustainable solutions for public administrations and local communities.
Manuel continues to lead and coordinate international projects, contributing to making cities smarter and more sustainable, improving the quality of public services and promoting territorial development and climate resilience. His leadership and strategic vision are crucial to the success of Focus Europe's projects and to the achievement of the association's sustainability and innovation goals.
IVANA LEGNAME
Mediterranean Area Relations Manager
Ivana Legname is the Mediterranean Area Relations Manager at Focus Europe. A graduate in Public Relations, Ivana has gained extensive experience as a consultant in the field of communication and culture. She has served as a communications consultant for Sign Language for the Municipality of Gela for over fifteen years. She has held various professional roles with several Municipalities, in addition to that of Gela, including that of Piazza Armerina, where she managed relations between Maltese and Italian institutions, significantly contributing to the valorization of local resources and the promotion of the territories.
Her career spans across numerous international projects, focusing on sustainable development and cooperation between Mediterranean countries. Ivana has been living between Malta and Italy for several years, where she has organised numerous events to promote collaboration between Malta and Italian public bodies. Her expertise in facilitating interactions between institutions, local authorities, universities, companies and tourism promoters is essential for the development of projects in the Mediterranean area.
Ivana has a solid experience in organizing events and managing institutional relations at an international level following all diplomatic protocols. Her ability to create effective connections and promote cooperation between different realities has been demonstrated over the years by working with great professionalism for the enhancement of the historical and cultural riches that interact between Malta and Italy.
Ivana Legname is also President of the Maltese NGO "The Islands", an organisation registered with the Office of the Commissioner for Voluntary Organisations.
In her role at Focus Europe, Ivana focuses on developing relationships in the Mediterranean area, facilitating collaboration between local authorities, companies and other organisations.
His experience and skills are crucial to the success of Focus Europe initiatives, helping to promote territorial development and international cooperation.