Navios Partners unveils management reshuffle, sets up executive office

“These promotions mark the beginning of an exciting new chapter as we strengthen the executive management team and continue our mission to be a leading player in the maritime industry through rigorous risk management, prudent capital allocation, and financial and operational discipline,” said chairwoman and chief executive Angeliki Frangou.

“With these promotions, we will continue to build optionality in chartering and capital allocation across market cycles through our diversified fleet, while optimising leverage and liquidity,” she added.

Office of the chairwoman

The US-listed diversified shipping company has appointed Vasiliki (Villy) Papaefthymiou to the newly created role of vice chairwoman of corporate transactions, while Shunji Sasada has been promoted to vice chairman of commercial operations, also a newly established position.

In their new roles, both executives will serve as members of a newly formed executive office of the chairwoman, which will act as a platform for senior leadership to advance the company’s long-term strategic objectives. Both will report directly to Ms Frangou.

Ms Papaefthymiou brings 35 years of legal experience, having led complex capital markets, M&A, and global shipping transactions across multiple jurisdictions. Mr Sasada, with four decades of industry experience, strengthens the group’s commercial reach and strategic capabilities.

Navios has also promoted Anna Kalathakis to the newly created role of president. With more than 30 years of experience, Ms Kalathakis will work closely with the executive leadership team to execute strategy, enhance management processes, and refine operations to build a more efficient organisation.

All three executives joined Navios between 2005 and 2007.

Senior promotions

As part of its next generation of leadership, Navios Maritime Partners has also elevated several senior executives to further integrate its dry bulk, container and tanker platforms.

Sophia Tavla, who joined the group in 2010, has been appointed senior vice president and head of the corporate legal group.

Alexandros Tsakonas, who joined Navios approximately five years ago, will assume the role of senior vice president, legal risk management.

Meanwhile, Grigoris Tzifas, a decade-long member of the group, has been appointed senior vice president, finance.

Navios Maritime Partners currently operates a fleet of 171 vessels, with a combined carrying capacity of 15M dwt and 287,243 TEU.