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Meet Anusha Varanasi: a technical mind with a creative heart
At Ecorus, our people are the heart of everything we do. In this series, we shine a spotlight on our Ecorians: the pioneers, thinkers, and doers working every day to create a more sustainable world. Their stories offer a behind-the-scenes look at how we tackle challenges, drive innovation, and create impact. It’s a testament to how We Know How comes to life, bringing us closer to a future powered entirely by clean, renewable energy.
When Anusha joined Ecorus in 2018, she was one of the first project engineers in the Dutch EPC team. “Back then, the company was evolving, and roles weren’t as clearly defined as they are now”, she recalls. “You did what needed to be done to get the job finished.”
Anusha was also one of the first women in the EPC team. “During my interview, I asked if there were any female colleagues, and the recruiter answered, ‘We will have them now!’”, she laughs. “I was relieved when I found out that Monique would be starting on the same day as me.”
Originally from India, Anusha holds a master’s in Electrical Sustainable Energy from TU Delft. “My technical background has been invaluable, but my interests have always extended beyond engineering”, she says. This mix of technical expertise and a broader strategic mindset has shaped her journey within Ecorus – from project engineer to project manager, and now a program manager.
“I don’t think of myself as a specialist in one specific thing. I see myself more as a jack-of-all-trades, which is exactly what my role requires.”
Bridging teams and building long-term partnerships
Anusha’s current role as a program manager was a natural next step. “We’re working on larger, more complex projects than before, and that requires a different way of thinking”, she explains. “The days of designing and building solar projects in silos are behind us. Clients now seek a well-informed, holistic energy management solution, whether it’s with storage, corporate PPAs, or integrated solar systems to achieve their sustainability goals.”
This shift not only increases technical complexity but also requires a new level of coordination across stakeholders, both internal and external. “As projects scale, so do the number of people and disciplines involved in realizing the goal(s). The approach shifts from a compartmentalized method of park construction to an integrated strategy that aligns every aspect – from permitting and financing to engineering and long-term operations.
By standardizing processes and ensuring alignment across teams, Anusha plays a key role in strengthening long-term partnerships and professionalizing Ecorus’ way of working. “We don’t always have a predefined roadmap”, she adds. “Each project comes with its own set of challenges, and a part of my role is figuring out how we navigate them and create that roadmap.”
A culture of open communication
Ensuring teams are aligned isn’t just about structure. It’s also about clear and direct communication. That’s one of the things Anusha appreciates most about working in the Netherlands. “Here, people say exactly what they mean and while it may take some time getting used to, it makes work really efficient.”
At Ecorus, she values the team dynamic. “The people make this company. We spend so much time working together, and knowing that you’re surrounded by considerate and motivated colleagues makes all the difference.”
Seven years in, Anusha is still learning, adapting, and pushing herself outside of her comfort zone. “I don’t always have all the answers, but that’s part of the journey, especially in a growing organization”, she laughs. “Every project brings new lessons, and every challenge makes me better. The learning curve is steep and that’s what keeps me motivated.”
Finding a home in the Netherlands
Although Anusha never planned to stay in the Netherlands long-term, she’s built a life here. “It’s not that I don’t want to go back to India – the renewable energy sector is booming there. But for now, I’ve found the challenges I’m looking for”, she says.
Work-life balance is one of the main reasons she’s stayed. “Competition can be fierce back home and it is sometimes challenging to set boundaries.”
A technical mind with a creative heart
Outside of work, Anusha has a creative side that might surprise people. She’s involved in English-speaking theatre in Rotterdam, sings Indian music, and loves to cook and travel. “I need something outside of work that gives me just as much energy”, she says.
This mix of technical and creative skills has always been part of her identity. “Growing up, I loved science and I was good at it. But I always had creative interests too. Now, I realize you don’t have to choose. You can do both, in whatever capacity you choose.”
Would you like to contribute to a sustainable future, with innovation and collaboration at its core? Explore our job openings in the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany and let’s build a cleaner, brighter future together.
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