Today Quality Importers Trading Company (QI) announced the hire of Joseph Gro in the role of Director of Marketing and Communications.

In this newly created role, Gro will be reporting directly to Chief of Customer Engagement Michael Giannini and is responsible for developing and executing QI messaging initiatives, trade marketing, and multimedia strategy. He has over eight years’ experience in the cigar industry initially working in cigar retail in the Greater Philadelphia area, and most recently serving in the role of Senior Digital Marketing Manager at Drew Estate.

Michael Giordano, CEO and Founder of QI, notes, “Joe has showcased tremendous innovation in the premium cigar space, and we are excited to have him join our experienced team of industry professionals. We are working hard to continue growing the QI family of brands while delivering world class service to our customers, and he will be instrumental in continuing our mission.”

Michael Giannini, Chief of Customer Engagement of QI, exclaims, “Philly guys have a different kind of SWAG-ger, pun intended. Together we are going to elevate THE SWAG BUNKER to new levels and introduce exciting new initiatives in the coming months.”

“I am grateful and excited for the opportunity to join such a dynamic team,” Gro adds, “QI has such a strong and diverse portfolio of iconic brands, including Xikar®, Humidor Supreme®, Palió®, Cigar Caddy®, and Hydra®, used day in and day out by cigar enthusiasts around the globe. I look forward to engaging with all our customers and consumers and bringing the SWAG to them!”