This ‘CEO Bros - after hours’ podcast, episode 19, marks a significant milestone as it features the first guest, Yannis Macheras, CEO of Harmoni Towers. The podcast aims to "explore the journey to becoming a CEO, lessons learned along the way, challenges overcome, people who helped, stepping stones, etc." Yannis Macheras's professional journey is characterized by a significant transition from law to business, marked by a series of increasingly responsible leadership roles in the telecommunications infrastructure sector.

Yanni Macheras: A Career Defined by Evolution and Leadership

A. Early Career and Transition from Law Legal Aspirations and Reality: Financial Disillusionment: Shift to Business: Missing the Theatrics of Law:

B. Professional Progression in Telecommunications Infrastructure Macheras's career at American Tower Corporation and subsequent ventures showcase a steady rise through the ranks:

American Tower Corporation (1999-2013):

Joined American Tower, one of the "largest publicly traded tower company in the world." 2005: Instrumental in the integration when American Tower merged with SpectraSite. 2006:

Assumed "full P&L responsibilities as a regional VP." 2013:

Became VP of Latin America. Parallel Infrastructure (2013-2020):

"Started another tower company from scratch," becoming CEO in 2013.

Served as SVP a General Manager at Lendlease after Lendlease acquired Parallel Infrastructure. Returned to CEO of Parallel Infrastructure in 2020.

Harmoni Towers (2025 - Present):

Currently serves as CEO of Harmoni Towers, continuing his impactful career in the industry.

C. Learning and Skill Development in Business Finance as a Key Learning:

Academic vs. Practical Learning:

Communications Towers:

Business Model and Operations

Macheras provides a detailed overview of Harmoni Towers, highlighting its unique approach within the tower industry. Scale and Strategy: Cost and Value:

Organizational Structure: Core Customers:

Business Model - "Annuity" from Rent: Neutral Host Provider: Stealth Structures and Community Engagement:

Leadership Insights and Personal Philosophy Macheras shares profound insights into his leadership style, challenges, and personal values.

A. The Role of a CEO Shift from "Work Work" to Leadership: "Sin Eater" Mentality: Empowering the Team:

B. Overcoming Challenges and Managing Anxiety Thematic Struggle with Existential Threats: "Cautiously Paranoid": Acceptance of Unpredictability:

C. Influences and Admiration Mentor: Admiration for Communication Carriers:

D. Pet Peeves and Communication Philosophy Lack of Communication and Responsiveness: Respect through Responsiveness:

E. Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs Assertiveness Balanced with Respect and Kindness: Key Traits for Success: