Karim Al-Khafaji

Karim Al-Khafaji has a diverse work experience spanning various industries. Karim currently serves as the Director of Business Development at Overstory since March 2022. Previously, they held the same role at Optimus Ride from February 2021 to December 2021.

Before transitioning to business development roles, Karim worked at Verizon from 2017 to 2021. Karim started as a Partners and Channels Executive, supporting Verizon Smart Communities from January 2017 to May 2019. Then, they became a Product Development Manager, focusing on Energy & Sustainability (IoT Solutions) from May 2019 to February 2021. Prior to joining Verizon, Karim was the Alliance Director at Sensity Systems, where they facilitated the commercial and product development relationship with a Fortune 1000 lighting and electronics manufacturer. Sensity Systems was acquired by Verizon in 2016.

Earlier in their career, Karim held various roles at Opower from 2013 to 2016. Karim started as an Engagement Manager, responsible for the success of utility clients and managing a team of 10. Karim was then promoted to Associate Director, leading a team accountable for revenue recognition, client retention, and client satisfaction.

Karim's career began at The Bridgespan Group in 2008, where they served as a Consultant, Case Team Leader, and Manager. At The Bridgespan Group, they worked on complex client projects and facilitated stakeholder decision-making for mission-driven organizations and philanthropists.

Before joining The Bridgespan Group, Karim worked as an Independent Consultant at Conservation International, evaluating the climate change relevance of projects. Karim also worked as an Environmental Engineer and Scientist at Parsons, estimating capital expenditures for infrastructure projects and managing work crews.

Karim started their professional journey at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency as an Engineering Technician, analyzing data, conducting research, and performing laboratory analysis.

Karim Al-Khafaji obtained their education from various prestigious institutions. Karim pursued their Bachelor of Science in Biology, specializing in Ecology and Evolution, as well as a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from the University of Nevada-Las Vegas, completing both degrees between 1995 and 2000. Later, they enrolled at Stanford University, where they earned their PhD in Quantitative Ecology, completing their doctoral studies from 2003 to 2008.