With international uncertainty about national trade policy, Connecticut officials are looking to bolster international business ties — and they’ve tapped a Ridgefield economic leader to a newly created role. On Wednesday, AdvanceCT announced the appointment of Glori Norwitt, chair of Ridgefield’s Economic & Community Development Commission, as Connecticut’s first “special international envoy,” a volunteer position […]

With international uncertainty about national trade policy, Connecticut officials are looking to bolster international business ties — and they’ve tapped a Ridgefield economic leader to a newly created role.

On Wednesday, AdvanceCT announced the appointment of Glori Norwitt, chair of Ridgefield’s Economic & Community Development Commission, as Connecticut’s first “special international envoy,” a volunteer position focused on strengthening the state’s international business relationships.

AdvanceCT President and CEO John Bourdeaux said the new position was created in response to a surge in interest from consular officials and overseas businesses seeking “subnational” partnerships in response to President Trump’s trade policies.

“There has been a dramatic increase in the past six months of, particularly, consular officials engaging with subnational organizations,” Bourdeaux said. “In this time when there is a little more uncertainty in the marketplace around things like tariffs and trade and foreign direct investment, we believe there has never been a more important time for Connecticut to maintain and increase our profile on the world stage.”

In the three months leading up to Jan. 1, AdvanceCT had three meetings with foreign consuls general, according to Bourdeaux. In the next three months there were four. And in the three-month period leading to July 1, there were eight meetings with consuls general, three with foreign ambassadors and two with trade organizations, Bourdeaux said.

In her new role, Norwitt will welcome foreign diplomats and business leaders, showcase Connecticut’s cultural and lifestyle assets, and facilitate introductions to key state and local officials, the state’s diverse diasporas and other stakeholders. The position aims to promote Connecticut’s economy, arts, entertainment and cultural assets to an international audience.

Norwitt, who holds a law degree from the University of Southern California, practiced employment law in the U.S. and Hong Kong until 2003 before relocating to Connecticut to raise her family. As her children grew, she took on multiple leadership roles with organizations such as CT Against Gun Violence Education Fund, Planned Parenthood of Southern New England, and the Center for Empowerment and Education. She joined Ridgefield’s Economic Development Commission in 2019.

Norwitt is married to Richard Adam Norwitt, president and CEO of Wallingford-based electronics manufacturer Amphenol Corp., and co-chair of the AdvanceCT Board of Directors. Both are regular contributors to Democratic campaigns. Norwitt noted Gov. Ned Lamont as a friend she sees at political events and dinner parties.

In Ridgefield, Norwitt played a key role in the town earning Connecticut’s first official designation as a “cultural district,” recognizing its vibrant arts and culture scene as an economic driver. Norwitt expects to step down from the town’s economic development commission shortly to accommodate her new role.

Norwitt said her appointment follows a recent conversation with Gov. Lamont, who spoke of a growing need for a consistent point of contact for foreign dignitaries and investors. With her background in economic development and international business, she saw an opportunity to make an impact.

“So, I raised my hand and said I would love to help,” Norwitt said. “I have expertise in economic development, but I also have experience working in international markets.”

Lamont, in a statement, touted Norwitt’s economic development experience and understanding of the state’s economy.

“Glori is extremely accomplished, and I’m proud to have her represent Connecticut on the international stage,” Lamont said.