Julie Balzano

Julie Balzano, a professional with over 25 years of experience, has dedicated the past 16 years to the recreational boating industry. She is well-versed in creating, implementing, and managing innovative programs for not-for-profit organisations and orchestrating global trade events for associations and public-private entities seeking to expand export sales.

Julie values a win-win approach, forging results-oriented strategic alliances. She has organised trade missions, B2B exhibitions, seminars, and conferences, benefitting high-level government officials, association members, C-suite executives, and business stakeholders. Her strategies earned the NMMA the prestigious President’s “E-Award” for Export Excellence, recognising remarkable contributions to U.S. export growth.

Before founding Global Connect Marketing Services, Julie spearheaded global brand marketing efforts for two luxury yacht brands at MarineMax. She launched membership programs and secured state-level sponsorships for the National Marine Manufacturers Association. Additionally, she counselled hundreds of businesses while serving as Director for Mexico and the Marine Industry Sector at Enterprise Florida, the state of Florida’s economic development organisation.

She holds a B.S. in Marketing from Rutgers University and served as a U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer in Central and South America. She chaired ICOMIA’s Export Committee, maintains a geographical focus on Latin America, and is fluent in Spanish. Julie currently resides in Medellin, Colombia.