
∄ Kyiv
Co-Founder, Managing Director, Creative Director
Overview
∄ transformed Ukraine's first brewery into a 6,000m² multifunctional arts center and concert hall in the heart of Kyiv. This landmark project combined architectural preservation, cultural programming, and business innovation to create one of Eastern Europe's most significant creative spaces, hosting over 70,000 visitors annually.
My Role &
Responsibilities
As Co-Founder and Managing Director, I led ∄ from initial concept through development and operations. This role represented my most comprehensive leadership challenge, encompassing an extraordinarily broad spectrum of responsibilities rarely combined in a single position: architectural planning, construction management, international business development, cultural programming, community building, and crisis management. The multidimensional nature of this project required mastery across business, creative, technical, and diplomatic domains, demanding both strategic vision and hands-on operational leadership in a complex international context.
Key responsibilities included:
Real estate development and architectural planning
Construction project management and vendor coordination
Building and managing a team of 250 staff members
Setting up and managing multiple legal entities in a cross-border business structure
Financial oversight of the entire operation in all countries
Cultural programming and event production
Stakeholder relations across multiple sectors
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I led the comprehensive renovation of Ukraine's first brewery, transforming a historical industrial complex into a world-class cultural center. I collaborated with Studio Karhard Berlin on architectural concept and design, ensuring preservation of historical elements while creating modern functionality. Served as the primary owner's representative throughout the construction process, coordinating multiple contractors while managing budgets (15M+) and timelines.
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I developed and implemented operational frameworks that enabled the management of a complex, multi-venue facility with diverse revenue streams. Created comprehensive systems for staffing, inventory, maintenance, and security across multiple event spaces, bars, artist residencies, and creative studios. I established processes that maintained consistent quality while accommodating over 90 events annually and 70,000+ visitors.
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I designed and implemented financial control systems for a multi-million euro operation with diverse revenue streams. I created budgeting frameworks for construction, renovation, and ongoing operations that ensured financial sustainability. Developed reporting structures that provided clear visibility into the financial performance of different operational units within the organisation.
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I built and led a team of 250 staff members across diverse functions including technical production, hospitality, security, programming, and administration. Implemented hiring practices, training programs, and organisational structures that created a cohesive culture despite rapid growth. Developed local leadership talent while maintaining international quality standards in a challenging environment.
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I developed and curated innovative programming that established ∄ as a cultural leader in Eastern Europe. Created a balanced portfolio of event formats ranging from electronic music events to contemporary art exhibitions, artist residencies, and experimental performances. Implemented programming strategies and outlets that successfully attracted diverse audiences while maintaining a strong artistic identity.
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I led the organisation through multiple unprecedented crises including the COVID-19 pandemic and the lead-up to war against Ukraine. Developed and implemented comprehensive business continuity strategies that enabled operations to adapt rapidly to changing circumstances. Created flexible operational frameworks that could scale up or down in response to external factors while maintaining core business functions and protecting staff welfare. Demonstrated decisive leadership during periods of extreme uncertainty, making timely decisions based on limited information while maintaining team cohesion and stakeholder confidence.
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I established and maintained critical relationships with government officials, regulatory bodies, and public institutions across multiple jurisdictions. Navigated complex regulatory environments spanning Ukrainian and EU frameworks, ensuring full compliance while advocating for the project's needs. Developed effective communication channels with local authorities that facilitated operational approvals and built institutional support. Created public affairs strategies that positioned ∄ as a valuable cultural asset to the city of Kyiv, securing both formal and informal support from key stakeholders.
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I served as the central operational hub connecting all business functions including finance, HR, facilities, programming, F&B, and security. Created integrated workflows that ensured smooth information flow between departments while maintaining accountability. Implemented standardized reporting systems that provided executive-level visibility across all operations, enabling data-driven decision-making and resource allocation. Managed complex stakeholder relationships including investors, partners, staff, and government entities, effectively translating strategic vision into operational reality.
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I designed and implemented resource allocation systems that maximised operational efficiency across a complex organisation. Created dynamic staffing models that balanced fixed costs with flexible capacity to accommodate variable event schedules. Developed procurement strategies that leveraged economies of scale while maintaining quality standards, significantly reducing operational costs. Implemented energy management and sustainability initiatives that reduced environmental impact while improving the bottom line.
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I translated high-level vision into detailed operational plans with clear metrics, timelines, and accountability frameworks. Developed and implemented systematic planning processes that cascaded organisational objectives down to departmental and individual goals. Created progress monitoring systems that enabled early identification of potential issues, allowing for proactive intervention. Balanced maintaining strategic direction with tactical flexibility, ensuring the organisation could adapt to changing circumstances without losing sight of core objectives.
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I managed a diverse portfolio of simultaneous projects spanning construction, programming development, technology implementation, and business expansion. Created project prioritisation frameworks that aligned resource allocation with strategic objectives. Implemented standardised project management methodologies adapted to the organisation's unique context, ensuring consistent delivery across different types of initiatives. Developed effective reporting tools that provided leadership with clear visibility into project status, risks, and resource requirements.
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I established ∄ as a safe, inclusive space for marginalized communities in Ukraine, particularly the LGBTQIA+ community. We developed specific programming, policies, and security protocols that created protected environments for expression and gathering in a challenging social context. Built support infrastructures for vulnerable groups, creating employment opportunities and community resources beyond the venue's entertainment function. Implemented staff training and awareness programs that ensured respectful and supportive service for all visitors regardless of background or identity, setting new standards for inclusion in Ukraine's cultural landscape.
Key Projects

Impact & Legacy
Beyond its success as a cultural destination, ∄ established new standards for creative spaces in Eastern Europe. The project demonstrated how architectural preservation, cultural programming, and business innovation could combine to create sustainable cultural infrastructure with significant social impact.
The operational frameworks and management systems developed for ∄ have become models for similar projects in the region, while the programming approach has influenced cultural production across borders.
Transferable Leadership Insights
Leading ∄ from concept to successful operation required integrating diverse skills: strategic vision, operational excellence, financial management, team leadership, and creative direction. The experience of building complex systems in a challenging environment honed my ability to navigate uncertainty while delivering consistent results—skills that transfer directly to executive operational roles across sectors.


















Other Projects…
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2016-2018 | Liquid Democracy
Managing Director & Board Chairman
Led strategic development of open-source digital participation software, oversaw all operations and 30 staff members. Managed key projects including mein.berlin.de and advocate-europe.eu. -
2023-Present | Otis.travel
Co-Founder, Managing Director, CFO
Developing an AI-first, innovative digital travel booking processes for business travel focused on the music industry, connecting directly to global distribution systems & consolidators.