Dimitrios Karamanis, City of Barcelona

Meet Dimitrios Karamanis – Nominated by CENIT

From Thessaloniki to Barcelona’s mobility ecosystem  

Originally from Thessaloniki, Greece, Dimitrios Karamanis moved to Barcelona three years ago and now works as a Transport and Mobility Researcher at CENIT, the Innovation Unit in Transport of CIMNE.  

CENIT transforms engineering knowledge into innovative mobility solutions that address social, environmental and economic challenges. Since 2001, it has built expertise in logistics, mobility and urban efficiency through research, training and technology transfer. 

In his role, Dimitrios manages and leads complex regional, national and European projects and proposals that aim to shape a more sustainable and inclusive future for mobility.  

Projects shaping the future of mobility  

One of Dimitrios’ recent projects focused on assessing the social value generated by Barcelona’s metropolitan public transport system, with a particular focus on Transports Metropolitans de Barcelona (TMB). 

He has also contributed to the development of the freight transport pillar of Ankara’s Sustainable Urban Mobility Plan (SUMP), helping integrate freight and logistics into long-term urban mobility planning.  

These projects reflect his interest and commitment to understanding how transport systems can create social value, while supporting more sustainable urban mobility planning. 

Focusing on the social dimension of mobility  

For Dimitrios, a key urban mobility challenge is making transport systems more inclusive. He believes this requires rethinking how cities design mobility policies and infrastructure to better reflect the diverse needs, travel patterns and population groups.  

Looking ahead, he envisions mobility systems that are more inclusive, affordable, climate-resilient and environmentally sustainable. He believes, cities should be accessible and liveable for everyone, with greater emphasis on active mobility and public transport. 

Why the Emerging Leaders program?  

Dimitrios joined EIT Urban Mobility Emerging Leaders program to strengthen his leadership skills, learn from experienced professionals and exchange knowledge with peers from across Europe.  

He sees the program as an opportunity to prepare for greater leadership responsibilities, expand his European network and build a strong foundation for leading with confidence and purpose.  

Growing as a leader to create greater impact  

The program aligns closely with Dimitrios' ambition to lead complex projects that bring together public authorities, industry partners and other key stakeholders. 

He is particularly interested in developing the leadership skills needed to align diverse interests, empower multidisciplinary teams and create an environment where both collective success and individual growth can thrive.