People of Sucafina: Meet Luca Cuomo  

We caught up with Luca to talk about what he enjoys most about trading, the importance of building long-term partnerships and why staying curious is key to learning and growing in a dynamic industry like coffee.  

1. Can you tell us about your journey into coffee and what led you to your current role as Senior Trader at Sucafina? 

My journey started in 2008, after graduating from university with an interest in global markets and commodities. Early in my career, I discovered that coffee was different from other commodities as it connects people from all over the world.  

Joining Sucafina felt like a natural next step as I was drawn to its global presence, entrepreneurial spirit and focus on creating value across the supply chain. As a Senior Trader, I oversee the Italy market, working to grow our network profitably in an ever-changing market. 

2. What are you most excited part of your role?   

What excites me most is building long-term partnerships and finding creative solutions for our customers. 

3. What do you enjoy most about being a trader? Is there a particular part of the job that never gets old? 

The part that never gets old is the human element. Coffee is ultimately a people business, and every conversation, negotiation or trip to origin is a chance to learn something new. For me, it’s the mix of understanding the market, building relationships and solving problems that makes trading so rewarding. 

4. Is there a coffee-related moment/experience that has left a lasting impression on you? 

Visiting coffee-producing regions and seeing the work that goes into coffee firsthand has always stayed with me. It’s one thing to talk about coffee from the office or look at it on a trading screen, but it’s another to see the dedication, skill and resilience of producers and the work that goes into every crop. 

5. What advice would you give to someone starting out in coffee? 

Stay curious and keep learning. The industry is complex and there’s always something new to understand. Take the time to understand the value chain, ask questions and build relationships across the business.  

6. What inspires you, in and out of your work? 

I’m inspired by people who are passionate about what they do and always looking for ways to improve. In this industry, that could be producers working to improve quality, colleagues finding solutions to complex challenges or roasters building successful businesses. 

Outside of work, I find a lot of inspiration in travelling and spending time with family and friends. Experiencing new perspectives and meeting people from different backgrounds helps me stay curious, open-minded and motivated, both personally and professionally. 

Quick-fire questions 

1. What's your favorite way to drink coffee right now? 

Espresso. Do you need to ask? 

2. Morning person or night owl? 

Definitely a night owl 

 3. What's one thing people might be surprised to learn about you? 

I’m probably more sensitive to fairness and respect than people might think. I believe everyone deserves to be treated with respect and really admires people who treat others well, regardless of who they are.