COWI Executive and Leadership Team

November, 2026

Leadership Overview

COWI has 4 executives leading key functions including strategy, operational efficiency, financial planning, and regional consulting management.

Focused on engineering excellence and sustainable infrastructure, COWI delivers innovative solutions that enhance global environments while prioritizing long-term quality of life for communities through advanced technical consultancy.

Leadership Roles at COWI

  • Chief Financial Officer (North America) - Sam Cobden
  • Chief Operating Officer, Armyu Academic Technology Support Directorate - Claire Cobden
  • President - COWI Consulting Inc. - Genaro Velez
  • Managing Director - Thomas Demant
  • Sam Cobden - Chief Financial Officer (North America)

    Sam Cobden, the Chief Financial Officer (North America) at COWI, directs the financial strategy and fiscal health of operations across the North American market. Overseeing capital allocation and budgetary planning, the Chief Financial Officer (North America) ensures that regional projects remain profitable while adhering to the firm's sustainability standards. This role involves managing financial risk and providing the necessary economic insights to support expansion in the engineering and environmental sectors. By monitoring regional performance metrics, Sam Cobden drives financial stability and growth. The Chief Financial Officer (North America) collaborates with the executive team to align regional investments with the global mission of improving quality of life through infrastructure. Through rigorous financial oversight, Cobden supports the delivery of high-impact projects that define the firm's presence in the region. This leadership role remains essential for maintaining the fiscal discipline required to sustain long-term innovation and market competitiveness.

    Claire Cobden - Chief Operating Officer, Armyu Academic Technology Support Directorate

    Claire Cobden, the Chief Operating Officer, Armyu Academic Technology Support Directorate at COWI, manages the internal operational frameworks supporting technical consultancy services. Overseeing the deployment of advanced technological resources, the Chief Operating Officer, Armyu Academic Technology Support Directorate ensures that engineering teams possess the necessary tools for complex project execution. This role involves streamlining internal processes to enhance efficiency across the architecture and energy divisions. By optimizing resource allocation, Claire Cobden directly impacts the speed and quality of service delivery. The Chief Operating Officer, Armyu Academic Technology Support Directorate coordinates with other executive leaders to align technological infrastructure with the broader mission of creating sustainable solutions. Through the implementation of robust digital systems, Cobden facilitates seamless collaboration on large-scale international projects. This leadership position remains critical for maintaining the operational agility required to address evolving environmental challenges while supporting the firm's commitment to beautiful, functional design.

    Genaro Velez - President - COWI Consulting Inc.

    Genaro Velez, the President - COWI Consulting Inc. at COWI, leads the strategic direction and business development for the consulting division. Overseeing the execution of engineering and architecture projects, the President - COWI Consulting Inc. ensures that client solutions reflect the firm's commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. This role involves managing client relationships and driving growth within the consultancy portfolio. By fostering a culture of technical excellence, Genaro Velez ensures that every project delivers measurable improvements to the quality of life for end users. The President - COWI Consulting Inc. coordinates with other senior leaders to integrate specialized expertise into comprehensive service offerings. Through the pursuit of complex infrastructure challenges, Velez expands the firm's influence in the global market. This leadership position remains vital for maintaining the reputation of the organization as a leader in providing beautiful, sustainable, and technically advanced solutions for diverse international clients.

    Thomas Demant - Managing Director

    Thomas Demant, the Managing Director at COWI, directs the overarching strategic vision for the international consultancy. Overseeing the integration of engineering, architecture, and environmental services, the Managing Director ensures alignment with global sustainability goals. This leadership role involves coordinating cross-functional teams to deliver complex infrastructure projects that improve quality of life. By fostering collaboration between diverse technical departments, Thomas Demant drives operational excellence across all international markets. The Managing Director maintains rigorous standards for project delivery, ensuring that every consultancy engagement meets the high expectations of clients. Through constant evaluation of market trends, Demant identifies new opportunities for growth in the energy and environment sectors. Ultimately, the Managing Director secures the competitive position of the firm by championing innovation and technical precision in every project phase, ensuring long-term value creation for stakeholders and the communities served by the organization.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding COWI Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads COWI?
    COWI is led by Sam Cobden (Chief Financial Officer (North America)), along with executives such as Claire Cobden (Chief Operating Officer, Armyu Academic Technology Support Directorate) and Genaro Velez (President - COWI Consulting Inc.).
    Who is part of COWI’s executive team?
    The executive team of COWI includes leaders such as Sam Cobden (Chief Financial Officer (North America)), Claire Cobden (Chief Operating Officer, Armyu Academic Technology Support Directorate), Genaro Velez (President - COWI Consulting Inc.) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does COWI have?
    COWI has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in COWI’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of COWI includes roles such as Chief Financial Officer (North America), Chief Operating Officer, Armyu Academic Technology Support Directorate, President - COWI Consulting Inc., Managing Director.