"The energy Barcelona radiates is the best" by Iosif Xiradakis
Iosif Xiradakis, 29 years old, Greek and American. Born in the United States, Iosif moved to Athens at a young age. He returned to Florida to study at the University of South Florida (USF), where he earned a bachelor's degree, and later joined CED, a distributor of electrical materials. Eventually, he left the U.S. to fulfill his military service in Greece before moving to Barcelona over three years ago to pursue an MBA at Esade. Currently, he has been working in sales for nearly two years at SAP, a German multinational technology company with a global presence.
Why did you choose Barcelona?
There are three main reasons why I chose Barcelona three years ago: location, culture, and professional opportunities. Before moving, I was applying to various MBA programs in Europe and the U.S. I chose Europe to be closer to my family in Greece. I chose Spain for its cultural similarities but also for the Southern European mindset: we work to live, not the other way around. Barcelona is a hub for international talent, and I wanted to be part of its future.
What are the city’s strengths?
The city's daily infrastructure is incredible. The cleaning teams deserve to be celebrated for their tireless service; something essential for such an active city. The endless public transportation options within the city or to other parts of Spain are also a significant advantage. Finally, the energy this city radiates is unmatched: its people, events, culture, history, and, of course, the best football team in the world. Visca el Barça!
Which aspects of the city need to be improved? How?
The city's biggest challenge is its lack of vision. Barcelona is simultaneously chasing three different versions of itself, and that’s not sustainable. The first is its role as the capital of the Catalan people. The second is its focus on the endless stream of tourism it attracts. The third is its newly acquired identity as a global hub for technology and startups, with new companies being founded and multinationals opening offices. The city needs a vision that strikes a balance between all three.
What do you expect from Barcelona in the coming years?
I expect Barcelona to continue to grow and thrive in the coming years. The city's international presence will keep increasing, expanding the academic and professional opportunities available. What won’t change is the city’s lifestyle, which will retain its young and vibrant culture. The only negative changes I could foresee would stem from climate change as the city prepares to face such challenges.
Which city do you consider to be your home city? What do you miss most?
I’ve spent my life so far in three countries and four cities: Tampa (Florida), Athens, Sacramento (California), and Barcelona. I feel connected to all of them and have considered each my city. From Tampa, I miss the year-round summer vibe; from Sacramento, the incredible natural beauty and landscapes of the state; and from Athens, the freddo espresso and… the best food in the world! That said, I have only one country, and that’s Greece.
