Duane Brooks has been recently appointed “Project Controller” at ICOS.
As a Project Controller at ICOS, my focus is on the financial health and integrity of our international projects. In plain terms, I ensure that our resources are being used effectively to support our scientific mission.
His day-to-day involves managing project invoicing, participating in the VAT exemption, and overseeing EU financial reporting. Duane also acts as a bridge between the ICOS personnel and the costs budget, and manages personnel cost calculations to ensure the project planning remains accurate and sustainable.
Duane joined ICOS after leaving a Helsinki-based networking and events firm, where he served as a Treasury Associate. During his time there, he developed a strong toolkit in cost control, process development, and advanced reporting skills. Duane holds a Bachelor’s degree in International Business (specializing in Accounting and Finance) from Haaga-Helia UAS, where he is also currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Leading Business Transformation, with a focus on Strategic Management and Innovation.
In his free time, Duane is a big fan of cooking.
It’s a major hobby of mine, and I spend a lot of my energy finding new recipes, experimenting with different ingredients, and seeing what works.
Beyond the kitchen, he is very interested in astronomy and has a soft spot for animals; he has previously spent time fostering and rehabilitating cats.
Working at ICOS is a deeply personal choice for me. I’ve always been struck by Greta Thunberg’s words at the UN: 'You have stolen my childhood and my dreams with your empty words.' As a young professional, that urgency resonates with me—it’s a reminder that we need action over rhetoric or disinformation. While my role is in finance, I see it as my way of contributing to a larger movement. I’m here because I want to help provide the data that pushes governments to move beyond 'empty words' and toward sustainable, science-based policy.