Sotiris’s career in sustainability began in the 1990s when after completing studies in civil engineering he became interested in how to incorporate environmental management strategies into business. By the early 2000s it had become apparent to him that in order for us to achieve a truly sustainable future, businesses had to take a holistic approach by incorporating the environmental, social and economic pillars of sustainability into their strategy and operations.

He knew he wanted to be part of that so embarked on studies focused on sustainability management, completing an MBA and attending hundreds of seminars to increase his knowledge, something he continues to this day so he can be sure he is up-to-date on the latest trends, issues and solutions.

He felt that auditing was the best way to interact with as many companies as possible and that tourism was positioned as a sector that could make real impacts because it brings together a huge variety of supply chains, sectors, people and places. That lead him to becoming a Travelife auditor where he says one of his favourite parts of the job is finding out that a hotel he audited has achieved their Travelife Gold Certification because that means that another company has become a sustainability ambassador.

He also has some advice for accommodation providers preparing for their Travelife audit. “Don’t hide anything from the auditor as it will only make things worse and hold you back from achieving your goals. And ask the Travelife team if you have any questions, they will always support you.”