Welcome to the Leader’s Insights, a place where The Future, asks the simplest, yet, the most interesting questions to the executives of well-known companies, startups and innovators.
Demetris Papadopoulos co-founder and CEO of Moving Doors, a PropTech startup based in Limassol, will be under “interrogation”. The company, founded in 2022, specializes in providing fully furnished, serviced apartments for business professionals, digital nomads, and families. The concept behind Moving Doors focuses on combining high-end accommodations with innovative technology to offer flexible booking terms and a seamless rental experience. This includes an online platform for managing bookings, payments, and contracts, which simplifies the process for both tenants and landlords
He is an accomplished entrepreneur with a background in civil engineering from the National Technical University of Athens (NTUA) and has extensive experience in real estate development and NPL (non-performing loans) asset management. His career is marked by a strong focus on leveraging technology to solve real-world problems.
Under his leadership, Moving Doors has successfully secured €1.1 million in seed funding to support its expansion, including plans to enter the Dubai market. The company’s growth strategy includes adapting its offerings to local markets while maintaining high service standards and investing in smart technology to improve efficiency and customer satisfaction
Let’s see what Papadopoulos has to say…
1. Do you remember your first day on the job at Moving Doors?
My first day at Moving Doors wasn’t at an office! It was the day that I realised that MoDo is missing from the market! That was my first day and for sure I will remember it forever.
2. What is more difficult: being interviewed to join a team or doing the interviews yourself?
That’s a tough one! Being interviewed is like being on a game show where you don’t know the rules or the prize. But doing the interviews? That’s like being the host of that game show. You have to make sure everyone has a good time, and sometimes, you end up playing referee too. I’d say doing the interviews is more challenging, but way more fun!
3. What do you most value in your employees?
Creativity, hands down. And a good sense of humour. At Moving Doors, we deal with a lot of doors—literally and metaphorically. I value employees who can think outside the box and maybe even make a joke about it while they’re at it. Also, people who can handle a lot of tasks and take initiative!
4. Which is a motto/quote you use in your work?
“Life is short, but the doors are always open.” It’s a reminder to seize opportunities and keep a positive outlook, no matter what challenges come our way.
5. If you were back to the start, what would you advise yourself for a great career?
I’d say, “Demetris, invest in better coffee and more comfortable shoes.” Seriously, though, I’d tell myself to embrace every failure as a stepping stone. And never underestimate the power of networking—every door you open leads to another.
6. How do you pump up your creativity?
I take a walk along the beach in Limassol with my dog. There’s something about the sea breeze and the view that just clears my mind.
7. What is a talent you would like to have?
I’ve always wanted to be able to juggle. Imagine closing a big deal while juggling three flaming torches! It’s the ultimate multitasking skill. Plus, it would definitely make board meetings more entertaining.
8. How do you balance work and personal life?
It’s all about doing what you love andn’t feeling like going to work. I honestly don’t believe in work and personal life balance as my life is my work and my work is my life.
9. What are the top five foods you like in Cyprus?
- Souvlaki – Skewered perfection.
- Halloumi – The cheese that squeaks back.
- Sheftalia – Juicy, flavorful food.
- Kleftiko – Slow-cooked lamb that melts in your mouth.
- Loukoumades – Sweet, honey-drenched dough balls. Perfect for a cheat day!
10. Can you name your top five favourite places in Cyprus?
- Limassol Marina – The best spot for a sunset walk.
- Troodos Mountains – Great for hiking and a winter escape.
- Kourion – Ancient ruins with a killer view and great theatre productions in summer.
- Aphrodite’s Rock – Birthplace of the goddess, perfect for a swim.
- Ayia Napa – Party central, because sometimes you just need to have fun!
11. Which personality, throughout history, do you admire most?
Leonardo da Vinci. He was a man of many talents and endless curiosity. Plus, he probably would have been amazing at designing war machines while painting the Mona Lisa. Talk about multitasking!
12. Who is your favourite author/book that helped your career?
“Daring Greatly” by Brené Brown. It taught me the power of vulnerability and how embracing it can lead to incredible growth and connection, both personally and professionally. Plus, it’s full of great quotes for Instagram!
13. Where would you advise our readers to go this summer?
Come to Cyprus, of course! Enjoy the sun, the sea, and the amazing food. Visit Limassol for its vibrant nightlife, Paphos for its history, and Nissi Beach for the best beach parties. And don’t forget to check our availability at Moving Doors, you might be surprised by our great apartments!
