"From ashes to rebirth” Stavros Lalizas Reflects on Leadership and Business Recovery
Posted on 2026-07-03
At its new premises, the LALIZAS Port in Piraeus, LALIZAS hosted a discussion dedicated to business recovery and the perseverance it demands - an evening that unfolded around Stavros Lalizas' book, "From ashes to rebirth," a true story of inner strength and leadership.
The book marked a significant anniversary: twenty-five years since the October 2000 fire that destroyed the company's factory in Piraeus. Drawing on stories, reflections, and personal insights from that defining period, it traces the journey that followed - a journey that shaped LALIZAS remarkable path and continues to inspire it today.
A central message of the discussion was that it is often necessity that pushes us beyond our comfort zone. As long as we refuse to dwell on blame or self-pity, challenges can become the driving force that helps us confront adversity, discover our inner strength, and move forward with resilience.
The discussion was moderated by Dr. Ilias G. Bissias, Professor at the University of the Aegean and Editorial Advisor for Naftika Chronika, Greece's oldest and renowned maritime magazine. He was joined by longtime colleagues of Stavros Lalizas, Olga Lipa, Vice President – COO, Tasos Galanakis, Vice President – CCO, and Tasos Manaloglou, Liferafts R&D Manager, who shared their own recollections as he walked the audience through his personal journey - the setbacks, the turning points, and the experiences that shaped the leadership philosophy he embodies today.
The conversation was kept deliberately unscripted, allowing speakers to unfold with striking authenticity.
Stavros Lalizas stressed that there are no magic shortcuts in business or in life in general; there is only hard work. He emphasised that open-mindedness, resilience, and being restless are the key ingredients that can help anyone move forward in life.
The event drew Stavros Lalizas's family, who attended in full, alongside close friends, current and former colleagues, and professionals from across the shipping industry, creating a warm and deeply moving atmosphere.
Among the guests was Evangelos Apostolakis, former Chief of the Greek Armed forces and Minister of Defence, an old friend of Stavros Lalizas from his years in the navy.
The evening was brought to a close by Iasonas Lalizas, the eldest son of Stavros Lalizas and Marketing & Communications Director of the company, who emphasised the importance of preserving the values that have guided the company all these years.
For Stavros Lalizas, fostering knowledge-sharing and continuity is a daily commitment, as he is committed to passing on his knowledge in a generous and open way.