Marco Finanzio
Founder & Managing Director

Marco is the founder of each of the current venues and a pioneer of reactivating the historical Thornbury High Street.  He is also a co-founder of the Melbourne Salami Festa. 

Marco has travelled the world extensively, having also lived in Italy, worked in London and volunteered in Costa Rica. After spending 10 years in the finance world, he decided to return to his true love of hospitality with vital experience and clear direction.

Marco is passionate about providing genuine hospitality and creating environments that bring people together sharing good food and booze.

Carla Barbieri
Marketing & Community

Carla has lived the journey of the Umberto Group since its inception in 2010.  Her experience in the not for profit sector coupled with her Bachelor of Education makes Carla the perfect leader of our community initiative Programma Comunità.

She loves West African dance and hanging out with her and Marco’s two children, Alessandro and Gigi.

Carla also heads up the marketing department in her spare time!

Adrian Bressanuti
Head Chef - Pastificio Sandro & Prova

Adrian started the Pastificio Sandro journey in June, 2023. For the better part of his career, he has had the privilege of being employed by some of Melbourne’s most prominent kitchens. Earning his stripes at Stokehouse and Tipo 00.

Adrian is committed to considering food beyond the plate. Sustainability and local sourced produce drive his process. With his knowledge, he has the ability to translate ideas that bring new substance to the Umberto Group. He is a believer that your team is your family and what better business to land in.

Adrian wears his heart on his sleeve and cannot wait to grow this humble little pasta shop into something special.

Andrew Barry
General Manager

Andrew is hospo born and bred. At 11 years of age he got his first taste of the industry, pouring pots at his cousin’s pub in South Melbourne and he hasn’t looked back since.

With over 22 years’ experience, Andrew has worked in bars across Europe and South East Asia as well as some of Melbourne’s best restaurant institutions.

He loves talking and experimenting with booze as much as he loves drinking it making him the perfect person to head up the groups beverage lists and specials. When he’s not working, Andrew spends time with his partner and daughter.

Antonella Rappos
Store Manager - Pastificio Sandro

Heart, integrity & passion - Antonella joined the Umberto Group as the Pastificio Store Manager in June 2023.  

Antonella spent 17 years as a Flight Attendant flying around Australia and the world with the highlight of exploring and experiencing the best culinary delights that each place had to offer. 

During covid Antonella ran her own catering business "Antonella's Kitchen" and this gave her great joy. 

Antonella loves food, she loves cooking and she loves the act of preparing food and then sharing it. She feels grateful to share her passion for food with Pastificio Sandro. 

Arlo Grech
Venue Manager - Gigi Rooftop

Arlo is no stranger to hospitality.

Growing up in little Italy on Lygon St., he was a regular at many of the local restaurants. He has fond memories of picking up his school lunch from La Notte restaurant every morning.

It’s no surprise that over the years, Arlo developed a love for the industry and was drawn to it as an adult. He joined the Group in 2021 and if you ever visit Gigi Rooftop, you’ll find him there, slinging delicious cocktails.

Katja Kollecker
Venue Manager - Joanie’s Baretto

Originating from Germany, Katja started her Melbourne journey in 2017, bringing with her a background in hospitality that dates back to her teenage years. 

From flipping burgers to mixing delightful cocktails, Katja's expertise in the hospitality realm reflects her dedication to creating memorable experiences for patrons.

Off duty, Katja's passion extends to art and fashion. You'll find her at gallery openings or sewing at someone's studio, savouring the diverse spaces that Melbourne has to offer, and raising a glass to the art of good living.

Kimberley Tracey
Functions, Events & Admin Manager

Joining the team in July 2023, Kimberley oversees all events and group bookings across our 3 venues. 

Originally from sunny QLD, she has over 15 years experience front of house and managed cafe’s, bars and restaurants locally and abroad. An industry hiatus to work in Advertising was short lived and reinforced her passion for food, beverage and the community that it fosters.  

Kimberley’s strength in planning, administration and design coupled with years of firsthand experience executing events make her a perfect fit to coordinate your celebrations! Outside of work, she is kept busy studying Sustainable Innovation in Textile and Fashion design.

Pete Kosztka
Venue Manager - Umberto Espresso Bar

Pete joined the Umberto Group in July 2021. A true hospo professional, he has worked within the industry for over 25 years. He is loved and respected by staff and customers alike due to his warm personality and genuine caring nature.

Born and bred in ‘Rezza’, Pete is excited to continue his journey in the northern suburbs. When he’s not busy at work, he’s busy at home with his partner and their four children!