My Personal Journey

Engineering to Human-Centric AI Transformation

My professional path is driven by a fascination with complex systems – both technological and human – and a core belief in leveraging innovation for positive change. With a foundation in Engineering (Master at the Technical University of Braunschweig), I initially immersed myself in product management within the dynamic European energy sector at Innogy SE and solidified my understanding of user needs and the practical application of technology.

Kevin De Silva
Speaking at a workshop at Deutscher Innovationspreis, 2020
Driven by an entrepreneurial spirit, I concurrently built a freelance practice in digital consulting and design starting in 2016, before taking the leap to build the product department from the ground up at the Berlin tech startup ucm.agency. There, I led an international team, architected scalable solutions, and spearheaded the shift to an agile environment.
2016-2019

Product Manager @Innogy SE & Website Design Development (Freelance)

2016-Present

Web Designer (Freelance)

2019

Product Lead @ucm.agency

2020-2024

Founder @Product Manifest

2021-2022

Organisational Developer & Agile Coach @Otto Group

2022-2024

Transformation Lead @MYTOYS Group

2024-Present

Managing Partner @ISG Personalmanagement

2024-Present

Founder @value-driven.io

Show Complete CV

Throughout these experiences, the consistent thread has been my passion for understanding how organizations & people systems function and how technology can be used not just for efficiency, but to enable people and foster better ways of working. This journey culminated in founding Product Manifest for consulting and, in 2024, value-driven.io, my current venture focused on applying AI to solve these challenges directly. My path has also been enriched by experiences beyond the corporate world, including impactful social projects in South America.

My Guiding Principles

rooted tree

Rooted in Purpose

I believe businesses possess both the opportunity and the responsibility to be a force for good. My focus is on implementing practices that create positive ripples, connecting economic success with sustainable impact.

balance

Balancing People & Profits

True success lies in equilibrium. I champion people-centric transformations that allow individuals to thrive, fully believing this is intrinsically linked to robust, sustainable business prosperity.

human centric tech

Human-Centric Technology

Technology, especially AI, is a powerful driver of change. My passion lies in leveraging it strategically – not just to optimize processes, but fundamentally to empower individuals, freeing them from mundane tasks to focus on creativity, critical thinking, and meaningful contributions.

enable potential

Enabling Potential

My approach involves fostering self-sufficiency. I work to enable individuals and teams with the knowledge, tools, and confidence to navigate complexity and drive their own success long after an engagement ends.

Core Expertise

AI Strategy

AI Strategy & Product Innovation

I partner with organizations to conceptualize and implement AI-driven solutions, particularly focusing on intelligent workflow automation. From defining strategy and roadmaps to designing modular, user-centric products, I ensure AI initiatives deliver tangible business value and enhance human capability.

OrgTransformation

Organizational Transformation & Architecture

I possess deep diagnostic skills to identify and resolve the systemic friction – strategic, tactical, and operational – that hinders organizational agility and innovation. I design and facilitate transformations towards resilient, value-driven operating models, fostering cultures where technology acts as a strategic enabler.

LeadershipAndTeam

Leadership Enablement & Change Facilitation

Transformation succeeds through people. I leverage extensive coaching, facilitation, and mediation expertise to empower leaders, build high-performing teams, navigate resistance, and ensure clear communication and alignment throughout the change process.

Education & Certifications

Academic
Academic Foundation

MSc/BSc in Engineering, TU Braunschweig

Specialized studies, Universidad de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria

Professional Certifications
Agile Coach & Docent Agile Product Owner (EXIN) Scrum Master (EXIN) Certified Mediator Train the Trainer QRC Coach Project Manager (GPM) Certified Breathwork Facilitator

What Collaborators & Clients Say

"Especially in large transformation programs, Mr. De Silva succeeds in taking people with him on the path and building confidence and trust even in uncertain times. He has an excellent methodical knowledge of change processes with focus on Product Transformation but is also extremely skilled in facilitating and bringing any kind of transformation projects to success."

Katrin Behrens CEO at OSP (Otto Group Solution Provider)

"Kevin was a key partner in driving and shaping a new, more positive and product-oriented culture... His insights, empathy and strategic mindset created huge value... He is equally adept at inspiring front-level teams, while simultaneously managing governance at C-level... If you need a change leader... Kevin is the perfect choice."

Mike Betts Chief Product Officer @ navar.ai

“Especially here in our startup, Kevin was a real all-rounder and always able to quickly familiarize himself with new topics and tasks... His work is characterized by commitment, flexibility, and creativity, while keeping the goal clearly in focus."

Marc Flegel Business Partner (ICS) @ Westenergie

"...Kevin finds his motivation from his purpose to contribute to a more green world, he makes a difference by a strong focus on putting the customer first, while not loosing what it takes to simply get stuff done... I’ve enjoyed his ownership. To really take something on, shape it, create it, try it, change it, improve it and own it. A full 100%."

Paul van Weerdenburg Head of Energy Portfolio & Business Development @ Eigensonne

"Smart leader with goal oriented work, Kevin always tries to make the best decisions for his workplace. He is blessed with good presentation skills and he can very well make his point."

Rutwik Hrushikesh Godse Product Lead & Strategic Communicator @ HelloFresh

"I would like to highlight your effort and patience in explaining each concept, as well as your interest in our learning. For me it was fantastic and thanks to you I had the opportunity to learn a lot about Agile Frameworks and get the certifications."

Yasmina Jara Peñacoba Business Development Manager