Getting to know you: Silvio Spiess

What do you currently do?
I am CEO of Innasol, the UK’s largest renewable heating company. We work with our nationwide partner network to switch the UK on to cheaper and greener renewable heating solutions. We do this by bringing cutting edge European renewable solutions like biomass boilers and heat pumps to the UK. Converting your home’s heating system or business from fossil fuels such as oil, gas or even electricity could see your heating bills drop by more than 45 percent.

What is your inspiration in business?
My inspiration comes from the desire to make life easier for UK consumer and to save some of their well-earned money by creating unique products and services. My drive to consistently deliver great results stems from a strong mentality – I like to set goals, work to achieve them, try to exceed them and then set my sights on the next challenge. This way, progress is constant.

Who do you admire?
I admire those who lead by example and those that take on an entrepreneurial approach in their role. The person that comes to mind is Dietrich Mateschitz, Founder of Red Bull

Looking back would you have done things differently?
I prefer to look forward than think about what I would like to have done differently during my career. I find that it is more positive and productive to think that way.

What defines your way of doing business?
I would say that I have a very hands-on approach to doing business. I like to be involved with my team and inspire them to progress with the brand. With Innasol, I divide my time between our offices in Austria and England, building close relationships both sides of the channel. I also aim to reward our employees, we recently invited our partner network to join us in Austria for an Innasol alpine trip.

What advice would you give to someone just starting out?
Before launching, it is vital to identify where your strengths and weaknesses lie as a leader. From there, you can work to develop those skills that require improvement and your business will be stronger for it. Also essential to any start up is identifying a need for a unique offering within your market, as Innasol did in the energy market in 2010. With upcoming government regulation and increasing fuel bills, there is no better time to make the switch to cleaner, greener and most cost effective energy.