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    Kostas Flokos: Empowering Innovation Through Technology and Leadership; “Moderation is Best” – A Balance of Vision and Pragmatism.

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    Kostas Flokos is a seasoned Information Technology professional with over 30 years of experience spanning software development, IT architecture, project management, and leadership. As the founder of multiple successful ventures and a driving force behind technological innovation, Kostas has consistently demonstrated a unique ability to bridge technical expertise with strategic insight, empowering organizations to thrive in an ever-evolving digital landscape.

    Kostas began his journey in technology by earning a Diploma in Electrical Engineering in 1989 and later a Ph.D. in Distributed Computer Systems in 1995 from the National Technical University of Athens. His doctoral research explored the use of personal computers in distributed environments, setting the foundation for a career deeply rooted in cutting-edge technology and systems integration.

    In 1991, while still completing his studies, Kostas founded his first software development company, marking the beginning of a lifelong entrepreneurial journey. In 1997, he transitioned to freelancing in Brussels, Belgium, where he contributed to high-profile projects for organizations such as Mastercard International, ING, Base NV, and the European Parliament. During this time, Kostas founded Upcom Bvba, the cornerstone of what would become the Upcom group, a collection of companies dedicated to leveraging IT solutions to enhance competitiveness across Europe.

    Upon returning to Greece in 2007, Kostas founded Upcom Ltd and later Upcom Cyprus Ltd in 2012. Today, the Upcom group employs over 230 professionals and more than 10 freelancers, specializing in custom software development, IT integration, and consulting. As General Manager of UpcomMinds and CEO of AGEify, Kostas continues to lead transformative projects that solve complex challenges.

    Beyond his entrepreneurial endeavors, Kostas has actively contributed to fostering collaboration and innovation within the tech industry. He initiated the STEPS Meetup series, events designed to promote networking and partnerships among professionals in mobile, IT, and technology. His involvement with the European Commission as a reviewer for H2020 and FP7 projects has further solidified his reputation as an expert in cloud computing, mobile technologies, and the broader ICT domain.

    Kostas’s technical acumen is matched by his commitment to lifelong learning and professional growth. He has authored patents, published research, and delivered presentations on iterative development and distributed systems. His leadership has been recognized through endorsements from colleagues and collaborations with leading organizations. As a multilingual professional fluent in English, French, and Greek, Kostas seamlessly navigates international markets, fostering cross-border partnerships and innovation.

    A firm believer in balancing vision with practicality, Kostas embodies the Greek philosophy of “metron ariston” or “moderation is best.” His leadership style reflects an open-minded approach, valuing diverse perspectives to develop effective, well-rounded solutions. This philosophy has guided his strategic decisions, enabling him to lead with empathy and pragmatism.

    Kostas’s influence extends beyond his companies. As a board member for the Greek Customer Service Institute, he actively contributes to professional communities, championing causes related to economic empowerment, customer experience and science and technology. These roles underscore his dedication to driving positive change in both local and global contexts.

    Throughout his career, Kostas has demonstrated unparalleled expertise in enterprise architecture, integration, cloud computing, and agile methodologies. His ability to anticipate trends and align them with organizational goals has positioned him as a trusted advisor and thought leader in the tech industry.

    Character:

    Kostas Flokos embodies integrity, humility, and a strong commitment to lifelong learning. His open-minded approach fosters collaboration and enables him to effectively lead diverse teams while staying true to his values.

    Knowledge:

    With over 30 years of expertise in IT, software development, and distributed systems, Kostas has a proven track record of driving innovation. His technical acumen is complemented by his deep understanding of enterprise architecture, cloud computing, and agile methodologies.

    Strategic:

    Kostas combines visionary thinking with pragmatic execution, ensuring the alignment of technology and business goals. His leadership has driven the growth of multiple companies and impactful projects, demonstrating a consistent ability to deliver results.

    Communication:

    A multilingual professional fluent in English, French, and Greek, Kostas excels at building meaningful relationships across cultures and industries. His collaborative mindset and strong interpersonal skills make him a trusted advisor and an effective leader in international contexts.

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    Kacey Card
    Kacey Cardhttps://boardsi.com
    Kacey Card is an accomplished editor at Leadafi, bringing a keen eye for detail and a passion for storytelling to the team. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Communication and Media Studies from the University of Hawaii at Manoa, where he graduated with a 3.8 GPA. Kacey has honed his skills in content creation, editing, and digital media, ensuring that every piece of content meets the highest standards of quality and engagement. At Leadafi, he is dedicated to crafting compelling narratives that resonate with readers and drive the publication's mission forward. His commitment to excellence and innovative approach to editing make him an invaluable asset to the team.