Visit to Tsakos Group: Insights, Innovation, and Inspiration for ICS Greek Branch Students

The ICS Greek Branch had the pleasure of visiting the offices of Tsakos Group, where our students were warmly welcomed and had an enriching experience. This visit provided an exceptional opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the shipping industry and its dynamic nature. Founded in 1970 by Captain Panagiotis N. Tsakos and headquartered in Athens, Tsakos Group has grown to become a leading global player, building a reputation for solid performance, reliable operations, and comprehensive solutions.

The day began with a company presentation by Evelina Petaloti, Member of BOD Maria Tsakos Public Benefit Foundation, Yannis Saparis, Chartering Manager, and Harry Hajimichael, General Manager of Tsakos Shipping & Trading. A Fellow Member of ICS, Mr. Hajimichail has made a long-standing contribution to the Institute, further enriching the connection between professional excellence and the next generation of maritime professionals. Their presentations offered valuable insights into the company’s history, milestones, and today’s market trends and dynamics. Adding a special touch to the day, ICS Members and Greek Branch alumni currently working at Tsakos Group shared their experiences, inspiring students with their professional journeys. Venetia Kallipolitou, Cross-Departmental HR and Training Manager, and Nikos Sazaklis, Commercial Director, were also present, facilitating the visit and actively engaging in discussions with the students.

A visit to the Performance and Optimization Center was another highlight. Experienced professionals demonstrated how the team leverages specialized software and AI technologies to address issues such as cybersecurity and optimize vessel performance based on data related to weather, consumption, and emissions.

The tour continued to the Simulation Room, where students witnessed cutting-edge training equipment designed to prepare onboard personnel for real-world scenarios. This demonstration provided invaluable insights into the importance of technology and preparedness in the shipping industry.

A special moment was the warm welcome extended by Captain Panagiotis N. Tsakos, Founder of Tsakos Group, who met with Natalia Margioli, Managing Director of the ICS Greek Branch, to discuss further collaboration with the Institute. As part of this collaboration, ICS Greek Branch will offer a scholarship to Fundación María Tsakos in Uruguay.

Throughout the visit, our students engaged actively, asking insightful questions and gaining practical knowledge about sustainability, chartering, and technological innovation in maritime operations.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Tsakos Group for their hospitality and for offering our students such an inspiring and educational experience. Visits like these strengthen the connection between academic learning and real-world application, preparing the next generation of shipping professionals to navigate the challenges and opportunities of the global maritime industry.