Patrik Wilkens of TheSoul Publishing: Cyprus has incredible qualities and potential

Originally from Germany, Patrik Wilkens has also worked in China and The Netherlands and now finds Cyprus to be a good home base for travel the rest of Europe and US.

Describe your current job in Cyprus.

As Vice President of Global Operations, I lead the company’s business-to-business operations – namely our licensing, direct-to-consumer, and business development departments. My goal is to grow additional revenue streams for TheSoul Publishing, build long-term strategic partnerships and test new startup hypotheses.

What led to your move from Germany to Cyprus?

I moved to Cyprus to work for TheSoul Publishing.

How does the professional environment in Cyprus differ from that in Germany or The Netherlands?

TheSoul Publishing is a truly global company and, apart from my colleagues working next to me at our HQ in Limassol, most of our team is remote around the world. Our asynchronous communication style allows people – no matter their time zone – to contribute to ideas and projects, allowing the influence of a wide range of cultures and backgrounds. Such a unique environment is incredibly different from my previous work environments. In general, life in Germany is very structured and a direct communication style in one’s private and business life is preferred. In contrast, I have found that people in Cyprus are more relaxed and always aim to be friendly and positive.

How do you view the business environment in your particular industry?

We chose to establish our company’s headquarters in Cyprus as TheSoul recognises the country’s incredible qualities and the additional potential it holds as a globally competitive technology hub. The island’s central location allows us to attract talent from the wider European region. Cyprus is a beautiful place to live, work and raise a family.

How do you find working and living in Cyprus? How easily did you adapt to life here?

Cyprus is a beautiful country and Cypriots are warm and welcoming people who made my family and me feel immediately at home. There is a large and vibrant expatriate community and we enjoy meeting Cypriots and expats alike. With young children, it was also important for us that the schools here were of a high international standard. Having come from Germany, I now find myself deliberately walking in the rain whenever possible (which is not very often) to remind myself what it feels like! TheSoul Publishing has fans and partners all over the world. With Cyprus as a home base, I find it easy to travel to and from the rest of Europe as well as the United States.

• Country of origin: Germany
• Job Title: Vice President Global Operations
• Company: TheSoul Publishing
• Office Location: Limassol
• Time in Cyprus: 2 years
• Other countries he has lived/worked in: China, The Netherlands
• Favourite restaurant in Cyprus: Columbia Beach, Limassol
• Activities he enjoys in Cyprus: Hiking in the Akamas region, stand-up paddling near St. Raphael Marina

This interview first appeared in the March issue of GOLD magazine. Click here to view it.