Marianna Skylakaki is founder and CEO of Forest + Tree, a strategic advisory firm specializing in strategic communication, storytelling, and helping organizations effectively communicate their purpose and impact. She is also publisher of the award-winning media company αθηΝΕΑ, and host and co-producer of the acclaimed docuseries Brave New Greece, broadcast on ANT1 TV. Marianna began her career in investment banking with Goldman Sachs in London. She holds a BSc in Economics & Politics from the University of Bristol and an MPA in Public Policy & Management from the London School of Economics.

George studied Mechanical Engineering at NTUA, Business Administration at Imperial College and Economics & Leadership at Harvard University. He has been fortunate to work in communication and marketing for over 25 years. Over the course of his career, he has held management positions at more than 10 companies and played a key role in establishing one of the most significant startups in the advertising sector. Continuously evolving professionally, he now leads Strategic Planning and Project Management at Forest + Tree.

Alexia studied Law at the University of Bristol and UCL. After a few years in commercial law, she transitioned into marketing in 2013, seeking a more creative and strategic role. Since then, she has worked in both in-house and agency environments, leading marketing initiatives across the tech, SaaS, FMCG, and energy sectors. Over the past decade, she has managed global teams and campaigns, driving demand generation and customer engagement across Europe, Asia, and North America. Today, she brings her experience and passion for marketing and communication to her role as Communications and Marketing Director at Forest + Tree.

Leftheris Plakidas is an experienced journalist and commercial director with a strong background in media, publishing, and content strategy. As the Commercial Director at Forest + Tree, he plays a key role in the company’s growth and strategic partnerships. With a career spanning multiple media platforms—including newspapers, magazines, radio, and television—Leftheris has reported on a wide range of topics, from general news and culture to sports journalism. His coverage and collaborations includes major global events such as 6 Olympic Games. An advocate for active living, he is a dedicated marathon runner, urban cyclist, and open-water swimmer. Originally from Thessaloniki, he lived the last 20 years based in Athens.

Maria is a certified Leadership Coach, Corporate Trainer, and founder of Lead From Within, which offers coaching and interactive soft skills workshops. She has 25 years of experience in adult education, working with HR teams to cultivate inclusive workplaces, enhance employee engagement, and develop future leaders, designing and delivering high-impact training programs, focusing on leadership effectiveness, performance optimization and people development.

Maria is a qualified lawyer with a degree from the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens. Her international experience and natural flair for communication led her to specialize in media relations and brand storytelling. With a strong background in project management, Maria has coordinated high-profile events with precision and strategic oversight. She has also helped shape and manage the public image of corporate brands, crafting narratives that balance authenticity with impact. A passionate communicator with a deep love for wine and gastronomy, she holds the WSET Level 3 Award in Wines and Spirits and continues to explore the world of taste through international seminars, exhibitions, and vineyard visits.

Olga studied graphic design and architectural drawing, bringing together a keen eye for detail with a strong sense of visual storytelling. She has spent several years working in both an architectural firm and a textile company specializing in fabric prints and patterns, and has built a versatile career as a freelance graphic designer. Her extensive experience in publication design, book and cover design, branding, and business materials allows her to shape compelling visual narratives. At Forest + Tree, Olga draws on this diverse creative background to amplify and elevate the meaningful work we do, turning ideas into design that connects, inspires, and endures.

Despoina Rammou brings her editorial expertise to Forest + Tree, shaping content and narratives across a wide range of projects. She also contributes to αθηΝΕΑ as both an editor and writer. A graduate of the University of Athens with a degree in Theology, she has held prominent roles in publishing, including editor-in-chief of GEO magazine and editorial director of the children’s edition of Kathimerini. Over the years, she has collaborated with leading magazines and publishing houses, consistently delivering work marked by clarity, structure, and depth. With a thoughtful approach to language and storytelling, Despoina crafts content that is both engaging and enduring.

Eleni studied Public Relations and Communication at the Ionian University. In recent years, she has been working at the media company αθηΝΕΑ, focusing on HR & Operations. With her background in communication and experience in HR, Eleni has gained valuable insights into supporting day-to-day operations and helping create a positive work environment. In her current role at Forest + Tree, she contributes to key organizational processes, with an emphasis on human resources and operational efficiency.