“Our efforts contribute to solving one of the biggest challenges of our time”

Michael Roussos joins Korkia as an Investment Manager, specializing in market research, financial modelling and business development. Michael holds an MEng in chemical engineering, an MSc in sustainable energy systems, and 3 years of experience as a sustainability engineer at a leading UK engineering firm, where he worked on the design and development of energy-efficient buildings & infrastructure projects.

Q&A with Michael:

Q1: What are your strengths in your new role?

My academic and professional background as an engineer has allowed me to bring an important perspective and set of skills to our business here at Korkia. Having worked in an industry adjacent to the energy sector, one that focused on sustainable design and project management, I’m very familiar with the importance of careful planning when it comes to designing and delivering high-value projects that have a positive impact on society and the environment.

Moving to a role involving investment & financing of similar projects has been an exciting transition, and one where I’ve been able to apply my analytical skills and technical knowledge of the markets and technologies that Korkia is involved with. My interest in the energy sector goes beyond our day-to-day activities here at Korkia, and my fascination with new technologies and the geopolitical complexities of the energy sector allow me to provide meaningful, valuable insights to our business and strategy.

It’s exciting being able to work in a role I find academically and intellectually stimulating, knowing our efforts contribute to solving one of the biggest challenges of our time.

Q2: What goals or expectations do you have regarding this new role?

My expectations regarding this new role are high, and I feel confident knowing the team at Korkia sets equally high standards. Korkia’s growth in the last few years has been inspiring, and surrounding myself with a team that is equally ambitious has been motivating.

My personal goals involve strengthening the internal processes that allow our business to run smoothly while it continues to grow, as well as maintaining my broad set of responsibilities that range from managing our existing investments, to researching new technologies, markets and business opportunities.

Q3: Name a book that left a lasting impression on you

Donella Meadows’ Thinking In Systems is a book that changed the way I understand, relate to, and most importantly influence the world around me.

The author does an excellent job of delving into the concept of “systems thinking”, which gave me a practical lens for tackling seemingly complex problems through breaking them down into their components and using holistic outside-the-box thinking. I learned as much about analyzing & manipulating complex systems (such as those we encounter in the energy sector) as I did about day-to-day decisions & challenges.

Highly recommended to anyone who wants to better understand how a multi-component system works – whether it be a thermostat, or the world economy!