Maria Flouda

Maria Flouda is the founder of Sustainability Switch Consultancy, a UAE-based venture helping organizations align sustainability strategies with the fast-evolving, AI-driven business landscape and the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

She also serves as Board Co-Chair and UAE Network Leader of Lean In Equity & Sustainability, championing access to opportunities for women and allies in the green transition. A postgraduate Civil Engineer, Maria has over 24 years of experience in corporate strategy, ESG frameworks, and project delivery across public and private sectors.

She collaborates with major industry players including International Holding Company (IHC), Ghitha Group, Masdar, and DIFC, advancing sustainability initiatives, ESG compliance, and stakeholder engagement. Recognized for expertise in climate change and sustainability—covering green transition, hydrogen, AI, supply chain decarbonization, and green finance—Maria has advised the EU-GCC Green Transition Strategic Project and contributed to high-level forums such as COP29 in Baku and COP16 in Riyadh.

With credentials from Cambridge University (CISL) and degrees in Civil Engineering, Maria is known for embedding ESG objectives into corporate frameworks and supporting clients in achieving net-zero goals. A sought-after speaker and mentor, she addresses sustainability, ESG, DEI, and women’s empowerment in energy, including through her role with Masdar’s WiSER initiative, inspiring the next generation of leaders.