Charles Duque

Project Management | Business Development | Cross-Cultural Communication | Operations

Charles Duque is a global food executive and culinary diplomat who currently serves as the Managing Director for the Americas at CNIEL, the French Dairy Interbranch Organization.1 2 In this role, he represents the entire French dairy chain, including farmers, cooperatives, and processors, while building connections to buyers in the United States, Canada, and Latin America.1

Background and Education

Duque grew up in North Bergen, New Jersey, in a dual-culture household with Colombian parents.1 He studied international business at The American University of Paris, where he also worked at a travel agency, gaining broader exposure to the world and developing a strong connection to France.1

Career Highlights

Throughout his career, Charles Duque has held several notable positions in the food and beverage industry:

CNIEL: As Managing Director for the Americas since February 2014, Duque manages relations with French dairy companies, importers, distributors, and various agencies.2
French Cheese Board: He serves as the Operations Manager for this organization, which promotes and showcases French cheese and butter in New York City.2
Business France: Duque worked as the Director of the AgroTech Division, providing strategic guidance on branding and business development for French exporters.1 2
Groupe SAVENCIA: He was involved in a direct-to-consumer retail concept called Affinage.2
Richart Chocolates: Duque established the US subsidiary of this French chocolatier.1 2

Achievements and Recognition

Charles Duque's contributions to promoting French cuisine and dairy products have been widely recognized. The French Republic awarded him the Order of Agricultural Merit for his work in helping French exporters introduce their products to the US market.1

Skills and Expertise

Duque is known for his:

Fluency in multiple languages (he speaks four)
Diplomatic approach to bridging cultures
Extensive knowledge of the global dairy industry
Ability to articulate nuances of cheese palates around the world
Experience in organizing events and managing promotional campaigns1 2

Through his work, Charles Duque continues to serve as an ambassador for French cuisine while using food to forge global connections and promote cultural exchange.1