Speaker

Panos Xenokostas is a visionary entrepreneur and investor specializing in shipbuilding, maritime, ICT, aviation, defense/security, and energy sectors. A graduate of the Hellenic Air Force Academy (Aeronautical Engineering) with an MBA from IUKB Switzerland in Business Organization and Management, his expertise spans high-risk technology investments, early-stage companies, complex restructuring, and strategic partnerships. He is passionate about creating sustainable solutions, driving economic growth, and building strategic bridges between the US, Europe, and emerging markets. As Founder and President of ONEX Shipyards and Technologies Group (New York-based, established 2004), Panos Xenokostas is creating a globally recognized leader in ship repair, shipbuilding, and integrated energy transition solutions—developing the world's premier shipyard-port technology and logistics hubs across four continents. Since 2004, he has built ONEX Group into a global force, rapidly expanding across 4 continents with: • 3,000+ employees • €350M in managed assets • €3B+ value across successfully delivered projects • €650M+ invested in Greece, targeting €1B+ in owned/managed assets by 2026 Key Achievements: • Turnaround Excellence: Revitalized Greece's historic Neorion Syros and Elefsina shipyards from bankruptcy to profitability, servicing 700+ vessels within 5 years and transforming Greece's international maritime footprint • Groundbreaking Financing: First Greek/European company—and the first shipyard globally—to secure US Development Finance Corporation funding ($125M+ bond) • Strategic Partnerships: Established collaborations with world-leading companies across maritime and technology sectors • Industry Leadership: President, Board of Directors, Hellenic Shipyards Association (HSAS) since its establishment in 2023 Recognition & Awards: - Named one of Europe's Top 10 Entrepreneurs (2014 & 2015) by the European Business Awards institution - “Innovation and Creative Entrepreneurship” Award by the Athens Chamber of Tradesmen (2014)