The challenge

The ecological transition requires new skills. But there is a lack of those who accompany companies, entities and territories in this change. Thus EXTRAVERT was born: a project that aims to train and professionally place “Green Managers,” figures who can lead the transformation to the circular economy.

The partnership

Eight partners between Italy and France, including training, public and private entities. A strong and cohesive alliance that aims to transform the “CirculAction Occupational Yard” into a permanent infrastructure for environmental training and job placement.

Difficulties overcome

Coordinating so many actors, cultures, needs and levels of expertise is not easy. But this is where the figure of the project manager takes on a decisive role. In my case, managing the project, with particular reference to the Work Package on Education on behalf of the Campus Foundation required vision, balance and deep sensitivity to environmental issues. In such ambitious projects, management is also an ethical responsibility.

The difficulties and skills required

The international nature of the project, its interdisciplinary nature, and the sensitivity of the topic require a high command of foreign languages (English first and foremost) and solid interaction skills with cultural, institutional, and academic partners from six EU countries. Effective management of a European project in English implies not only technical knowledge, but also communication, diplomatic and scientific skills. For this reason, my university education and experience in transnational consortia are crucial.

The results of cooperation

EXTRAVERT doesn’t just train. It changes the way green jobs are looked at. We have designed a new cross-border training model, experimented with real pathways, and strengthened the CirculAction platform to facilitate the matching of skills supply and demand. The Cross-Border Training-Employment Alliance is the beating heart of the project.

What we learned

We have learned that a new professional figure is needed: the green manager is not a technician among many, but a “general practitioner” of the ecological transition. A professional capable of reading needs, proposing solutions, accompanying public and private organizations with respect and foresight.
And we learned that the project manager, in this context, is not only an organizer. He is also a guarantor of consistency, a guardian of the ethical and environmental value of project action.

A personal note

EXTRAVERT is one of those projects that leaves a mark. For its topicality, for the commitment required, for the profound meaning it conveys. Bringing my experience in training, sustainable tourism and European planning to the service of a project so consistent with the objectives of the European Commission is a responsibility I take on with pride.