In this episode of CREtech's CEO Stories, Coen van Oostrom, Founder and CEO of EDGE, shares his journey from traditional real estate development to becoming a leader in sustainable building practices. He discusses the pivotal moment of meeting Al Gore, which inspired a commitment to sustainability, and how this shift has led to increased profitability. Coen emphasizes the importance of change management, teamwork, and innovation in navigating the challenges of the real estate market. He also reflects on his personal routines, leadership philosophy, and the evolving landscape of real estate influenced by technology and market trends.

Takeaways:

• Sustainability can be profitable and beneficial for business.
• Change management is complex but essential for success.
• Team collaboration fosters innovative solutions to challenges.
• Market trends require proactive and entrepreneurial thinking.
• AI and technology will revolutionize the construction process.
• Daily routines are crucial for maintaining balance and focus.
• Leadership involves both innate qualities and learned skills.
• Support systems are vital for navigating the pressures of leadership.
• Real estate is a dynamic industry influenced by various factors.
• Personal growth and continuous learning are key to effective leadership.