Michael Dritsas

WORK HISTORY

EDUCATION

ABOUT MICHAEL DRITSAS

Seasoned executive with over 30 years of experience in leading management positions in both, the private and public sectors. A strong focus on co-funded EU research and innovation programs is vital for Greece and Europe\'s economic and social development. Following the position of establishing and becoming the first CEO of Elevate Greece SA, a state-owned organization that aims to map, track, and promote Greece\'s innovation ecosystem, I am currently assigned to the Special Coordination Unit for Strategy, Design, and Implementation of Programmes co-financed by EU Structural Funds, focusing on Cohesion Policy, Competitiveness and the Strategic Technologies for Europe Platform (STEP) implementation.Previously, I was the head of the cabinet of the Deputy Minister for development and investments, research, and innovation, playing a pivotal role in policy making and execution, in drafting the national R&I Strategy towards 2030.Representative of Greece in the European Innovation Council and Forum.Co-authored of the book Startups: From A to Exit (2023)Instructor of \"Science Diplomacy\" at the National School of Public Administration, and author of relevant notes and case studies.Prior to that, I worked as an advisor to four ministers of development and investments, as a senior executive in designing and monitoring EU-co-funded programs, and as a marketing communications and consulting professional. Chartered Engineer, Chartered Economist, and Chartered Marketer (MCIM), with an MSc in Operational Research from NTUA, and an MBA from the University of Lancaster with Distinction (top of MBA Class).Extensive experience in drafting and evaluating business plans, in coaching and mentoring of startups, and scaleups, and teaching Strategic Management to senior executives.My mission is to foster a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship, by bridging the gap between the public and private sector, and by contributing to the creation of value and impact for society.