Date of publication: May 13, 2019

Massimo Allegri

Regional General Manager East Europe & Asia: Alitalia

Date of birth: Jan. 3, 1960

Hometown: Genoa, Italy

Number of years in Japan (cumulative): 4 (as of May 2019)

Q1: What was your first encounter with Japan?

During my professional life I traveled a lot in Asia, but by chance I had never arrived in Japan. The first thing that impacted me was this feeling of surprise. It's a country that's certainly in Asia, but with very different features compared to all of their neighbors.

Q2: Please state your motto in life and why you have chosen it.

“Love and do what you want.” A phrase from St. Augustine that sums up the value of loving, respecting, understanding and helping others by living your life according to your own principles, values and aspirations.

Q3 : Over your career, what achievement are you the proudest of?

If I can say, after more than 35 years of professional life in the tourism industry and airlines, I am proud to have experienced the impressive developments that this sector has seen, contributing my expertise to serve strong change. During my appointment in Japan, I developed Alitalia connections from Asia to Italy: Two daily flights from Tokyo to Rome and Milan, four weekly flights from Korea to Rome and one daily flight from New Delhi to Rome.

Q4 : What are your goals during your time in Japan, your current position or in life?

Continue to know and learn more about the life and culture of the country that hosts me, consolidating and developing the ability of Alitalia to offer the best service to our faithful Japanese passengers, combining Italian passion, creativity and ingenuity with taste, culture and the sophisticated beauty of Japan.

Q5 : What wisdom, advice or tips can you give to people living and working in Japan?

Be open, listen and understand. Do not rush. Accept the rhythms and local habits without losing your own characteristics, your passions. Be curious, never intrusive. Appreciate the differences and do not be afraid to show yours. Be kind and never rude or crude. You will receive, over time, much more than you expect.

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Last updated: May 13, 2019