VEV Leadership Team
Combining expertise from energy and automotive sectors
Our leaders have a blend of experience from the two sectors that are converging to form the commercial EV industry.
They came together to offer a fresh perspective on commercial fleet electrification, one that is laser-focused on making EV fleets work for business as well as for the environment
Mike Nakrani
CEO
Mike Nakrani
CEO
What is your role at VEV?
I lead our business, heading up the VEV board and reporting to our investors at Vitol. I work with my leadership team to set the strategic direction for VEV, oversee our business and work with key strategic partners.
Industry experience
A seasoned entrepreneur & intrapreneur with 20+ years of experience in the mobility sector, Mike was previously Head of OEM & European SMART Mobility at a leading international car manufacturer and VP of Electrification, Hydrogen and Mobility at an Oil and Gas Major.
Why did you join VEV?
To accelerate the energy transition in the transport and mobility industry.
What are your hobbies?
Reading and being a taxi driver to my kids. When given the chance, I enjoy watching football!
Best advice you have received?
If you make your hobby your work, you will never work a day.
Will Evans
VP Finance & Business Development
Will Evans
VP Finance & Business Development
What is your role at VEV?
I oversee the financial performance and development of VEV. This involves evaluating VEV’s economic and financial operations, whilst also developing new business models and opportunities for the organisation, including M&A activity..
Industry experience
With 25 years of commercial roles at BP and Canadian Pacific, Will launched a global electrification business under the BP Pulse brand, developed a European e-mobility strategy, and led the UK Home Charge division.
Why did you join VEV?
I find fulfilment in tangible building experiences. At VEV, we are constructing a business, an industry, and a future.
What are your hobbies?
Dabbler in multiple hobbies including DIY, golf, squash, guitar and classic movies
Best advice you have received?
Stop overthinking & get comfortable with the uncomfortable.
Marcelo Soares
VP Customers & Partnerships
Marcelo Soares
VP Customers & Partnerships
What is your role at VEV?
I’m accountable for all activities related to business development, account management and strategic partnerships. I lead our teams that interface with customers and partners.
Industry Experience
Marcelo has been in the energy sector in large multinational companies for 25+ years and has led complex business operations in multiple geographies. His recent roles include developing and growing large global strategic partnerships in the e-Mobility sector and P&L of one of the largest public charging networks in the UK with thousands of charge points.
Why did you join VEV?
It is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to transform businesses in the e-Mobility market, addressing pain points and removing complexity for simplicity.
What are your hobbies?
My family and travelling. We love visiting new places and learning about different cultures.
Best advice you have received?
Listen to all to learn from everyone. Nobody knows everything, but everyone knows something.
Chris O’Sullivan
VP Engineering & Operations
Chris O’Sullivan
VP Engineering & Operations
What is your role at VEV?
I lead the operations function and am responsible for managing VEV’s infrastructure. My team design and build VEV solutions for our customers.
Industry experience
Chris has delivered complex projects in multiple international locations, and as VP Operations of BP’s e-Mobility business, he was responsible for designing and installing thousands of charge points in the UK. He is a chartered engineer and a professionally recognised project manager.
What are your hobbies?
I am an external board advisor for an EV start-up business and a mental health charity.
Sam Hoyland
VP Commercial Development & Marketing
Sam Hoyland
VP Commercial Development & Marketing
What is your role at VEV?
I am responsible for developing our customer propositions, marketing, and revenue operations. I work with our customers to develop new business models involving fleet electrification. This includes leading our engagements with airports, ports and supply chains.
Industry experience
Sam’s background is in the technology and energy sectors, developing growth strategies and leading major commercial change initiatives. He launched Centrica’s clean energy division where he led the Commercial, Product and Marketing functions. He was Group Brand & Marketing Director at Vodafone Business with global responsibility for sales and marketing performance across 22 markets.
Why did you join VEV?
I love a challenge, a purpose and making a difference. VEV ticks all three boxes. Plus, I get to be part of a fantastic team that is focussed on creating the first fully integrated fleet electrification solution, partnering with businesses to reduce their carbon emissions.
What are your hobbies?
Just add water! Anything involving being on or in the sea…
Best advice you have received?
Don’t listen to random advice from strangers!
Michael Brown
VP Product & Offer
Michael Brown
VP Product & Offer
What is your role at VEV?
I lead the product development function and am responsible for all digital, hardware and data-related product offers at VEV. My team defines and delivers our solutions working with the software development team and external partners to ensure VEV are a leader in the electrification industry.
Industry Experience:
Mike has worked in automotive and e-Mobility product development for over 20 years. He was with Ford for 15 years, leading advanced EV and commercial product development programmes. He went on to lead Product and Business Strategy at Gordon Murray Design and Fleet Decarbonisation & Innovation at BP Pulse.
Why did you join VEV?
I am excited by the opportunity to build a unique business from the ground up and effect real change.
What are your hobbies?
I enjoy time with my family, skiing and riding my bike.
Best advice you have received?
Both life and work are team sports. You are only as good as the team around you – fortunately, we are building an incredible team here at VEV.
Hanno Klausmeier
VP Software Engineering
Hanno Klausmeier
VP Software Engineering
What is your role at VEV?
I lead the software team at VEV. We are based in France, and focused on developing the VEV-IQ web and mobile platform, to provide a single window for EV Fleet Operations across energy, vehicles and chargers.
Industry Experience
As Managing Director of SAP Labs France, Hanno led 400+ employees and spearheaded the electric car program. With expertise in the Public Sector, he is committed to sustainability and promoting electric mobility.
Why did you join VEV?
To develop, sell and promote software solutions in the electric vehicle market.
What are your hobbies?
I enjoy spending time with family, reading, playing chess, swimming and sailing.
Best advice you have received?
We will either find a way or make one (Hannibal Barkas).