A quick Q&A with Jakob Stoumann, Hub Director at PropTech Denmark and proptech ecosystem builder
What is your most surprising prediction about cities?
Jakob Stoumann
I believe that very soon ‘noise’ will be seen as one of the major challenges that we have to solve as our cities grow and become denser. While climate problems are not really an urban problem but a societal one that includes all geographies and sectors, noise is really becoming one of the major challenges in ensuring liveability in our cities.
Who is the person that most influenced the way you think about cities and technology?
No doubt that a person like Jan Gehl has influenced my view on what good cities are. He really isn’t a tech person. But his extremely human-centric approach is also a gift when thinking of urbantech, proptech and so on.
What 2-3 books / podcasts would you recommend?
I would definitely recommend PropTech Denmarks podcast series Where worlds collide. It’s a tour de force in Danish real estate and how proptech is changing the dynamics and playing field in the sector.
Where’s the best place for new ideas?
Being among good colleagues.
Who inspires you?
My former Chairman of the Board, Kim Mřller. He has always been extremely value-based in what he does – as an entrepreneur, as leader and as a family person.
What are the skills we’ll need in 10 years?
I think we will see a massive revival of the need for soft skills – i.e. creativity, social and cultural skills, sociology, anthropology, etc.
What advice would you give to your younger self?
Take it easy and enjoy where you are. Not meaning that you should never look for new opportunities, but remember that there are so many learnings and growth opportunities in most positions and organisations.
What is your call to action?
Let’s get things done now. We’ve got the knowledge, the burning platform and many of the needed solutions. No more excuses!
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Connect with Jakob on LinkedIn
