Matteo Sarzana is a senior business leader with over a decade of experience building and scaling technology-driven marketplaces in Europe, with a strong focus on Italy. He currently serves as Country Manager for Italy at Airbnb, where he is responsible for driving growth, shaping market strategy, and strengthening the company’s presence across one of its most strategic global markets. Matteo brings a unique combination of operational rigor, strategic vision, and communication expertise. His leadership is grounded in a deep understanding of how to balance supply and demand in complex, regulated environments, while aligning cross-functional teams around clear, measurable outcomes. Prior to joining Airbnb, Matteo spent nearly ten years at Deliveroo, where he played a pivotal role in launching and scaling the business in Italy. As one of the earliest leaders in the market, he built the Italian operations from the ground up, navigating rapid growth, competitive dynamics, and evolving regulatory frameworks. Under his leadership, Deliveroo became one of the leading players in the food delivery sector in Italy. Throughout his career, Matteo has demonstrated a strong ability to operate at the intersection of business, policy, and communications. He has led high-impact initiatives involving public affairs, brand positioning, and stakeholder engagement, often in moments of significant change or complexity. He is known for his ability to anticipate external narratives, translate them into actionable strategies, and mobilize teams with clarity and purpose. At Airbnb, Matteo has focused on unlocking sustainable growth by adapting global strategies to local realities. He has driven initiatives to strengthen supply quality, improve affordability, and enhance the overall guest and host experience. His approach emphasizes experimentation at local level, rapid iteration, and a disciplined use of data to inform decision-making. Matteo is particularly passionate about building high-performing teams and fostering a culture of ownership and accountability. He believes in empowering individuals while maintaining a strong sense of collective responsibility toward shared goals. His leadership style reflects Airbnb’s core values, with a strong emphasis on hospitality, trust, and community. Beyond his professional role, Matteo has a long-standing interest in technology, mobility, and craftsmanship. He is passionate about motorcycling and model railroading, reflecting his curiosity for both speed and precision, as well as systems thinking.