Spotlight on Michele: A diverse talent
Bringing about the global change to renewable energy is bigger than one person, or even one team. Our people represent a huge range of skills, from engineers and developers to the people connecting our projects together. One such person is Michele; he’s spent the past year working as product manager in our Italian office.
Tasked with overseeing a product’s portfolio, Michele finds himself working with a variety of different teams all over the world. From liaising with purchase and marketing to communicating with senior management, his job demands incredible versatility. But when he joined us in early 2021, we knew we were getting a uniquely talented new colleague.
Michele is defending our planet
Renewable energy has been in Michele’s DNA since he graduated with his engineering master’s degree in 2007. His 14-year (so far) career has been driven by the need to do a job that’s more than simply a job. His native Italy boasts one of Europe’s healthiest solar energy markets after years of impressive growth. Having played a small but measurable part in that positive change is a huge source of pride.
Well versed in PV projects, his career has already seen him take the lead on the development of a large-scale PV storage project.
From developing ideas and R&D through to engineering and sales, he was able to get a full perspective on the project from start to finish.
Now that he’s with BayWa r.e., he can access a planet’s worth of renewable energy expertise to back up his intimate local knowledge. Hooking up with colleagues who share his drive and determination to serve something greater than themselves was a key reason for Michele coming on board.
For me, it’s important to work for a company that promotes sustainability. Here, we’re constantly showing off the results of our activities. That might be how we’re making travel more efficient, or the steps we’re taking to lower our own CO₂ production. We can be proud of it together because the human element, those personal relationships, are encouraged.
Michele
Product Manager, Italy
Michele is embracing the future
This multi-faceted talent also extends into Michele’s personal life; what’s the point of saving the planet if you can’t get out there and enjoy it! He’s held a gliding pilot license since 2017, giving him ample opportunity to take a birds-eye view of the gorgeous Italian countryside.
When he’s not up in the air, he’s also a player-coach for his local mixed volleyball team, something he’s been enjoying for over 10 years. Then there’s bonsai trees, which Michele loves tending in his spare time. These seemingly disparate interests all play a role in helping him achieve his personal and professional ambitions.
“With the gliding, there’s that sense of reconciling with nature. Flying free in the sky without an engine, it’s a very special feeling. Peaceful. It’s the same with bonsai, these small plants need lots of care and attention.
They help me focus on what nature really looks like. As for volleyball, I love getting to understand people on a sociological level. How do they perform together towards a common goal? Team sports help you see that.”
With such a creative mind, it’s no surprise to learn Michele has applied his renewables knowledge to his own home in the same way. PV and solar thermal systems currently cover about 30% of his energy needs, with all his hot water and heating handled by that thermal system. This first-hand experience and dedication to the sustainability mission makes him a highly valued colleague with a strong future here at BayWa r.e.
