Meet the team

Dave Hemminga

Founder & Creative director

Solid knowledge of the Algarve and sustainable building techniques. Keen on creating constructive and genuine relationships.

Dave lives in the Algarve.

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> Story about the CO-founder

Karin Sligting

Managing director

Initiator of a large portfolio of creative and entrepreneurial projects, both in the Netherlands and in Portugal. An academic with a helicopter view. Developed her general management skills by setting up various companies and organisations in the creative and sustainability sector. Has an in-depth knowledge of Portuguese language, culture, law and regulations. 

Karin lives in the Algarve.

William van Beuningen

Financial advisor

With over 15 years of experience in real estate finance and development William takes care of the financial management of the project. He is very keen on the enormous potential of sustainable building methods, and used his financial knowledge in combination with a strong network to optimise the investment.

William lives in Portugal.

JIMMY BAKKER

Sales & Project manager

With over 20 years of experience as a project manager, Jimmy turns creative ideas into feasible plans and sees them into fruition. With strong communication skills and a good sense of humor, Jimmy enjoys addressing challenges at hand and working in dynamic environments. At Powered by CO, Jimmy works with sales as well as operational project management. Jimmy lives by the motto 'wishful thinking, wishful doing' and believes strongly in the power of having a solution-oriented and positive mindset.

KATE KING

Sustainability Coordinator & Project manager

Passionate and pragmatic environmentalist with more than a decade of international experience in infrastructure planning and construction with a focus on sustainability. With her strategic planning and operational skills, Kate´s role at Powered by CO  includes business operations, project planning and communications, as well as research and direction on all things related to sustainability. Big believer in community building, as well regenerative and forward-thinking solutions for how to live well on this earth.

JORGE LIRA

Technical advisor & architect

Since 1992, Jorge has been working as an architect and entrepreneur, with a passion for eco-construction methods especially designing and building using wood. With both a technical and creative approach, Jorge has led and participated in a large array of building projects and international research programs in energy conservation and sustainable construction. At Powered by CO, Jorge tackles technical questions regarding engineering, design, and construction.