Meet the Team: Captain Panagiotis Bitsakis
With roots firmly anchored in Athens and a career spanning both sea and shore, Captain Panagiotis Bitsakis exemplifies modern maritime leadership grounded in experience and integrity. Born and raised in Athens, Greece, he has built his career on the foundation of commitment, professionalism, and respect for the seafaring life. His connection to the maritime industry began in 1993, when he embarked on his first vessel as a cadet. Those early days at sea shaped not only his understanding of ship operations, but also his appreciation for the dedication and resilience required of those who choose this profession.
Over the following years, Panagiotis advanced steadily through the ranks on oil and chemical tankers, gaining valuable hands-on experience and leadership skills. His efforts culminated in a major career milestone when, at just 31 years of age, he was awarded his Captain A license and entrusted with his first command. Becoming one of the youngest captains in a traditional Greek shipping company was both a professional and personal achievement; one that confirmed his ability to lead crews, make critical decisions, and manage the complex responsibilities of command. “It was a defining moment,” he recalls. “The sense of accountability and pride that comes with taking command stays with you throughout your career.”
After many successful years at sea, “Captain Panos” made the transition ashore in 2015, joining Scorpio as Head of Crew. Drawing on his seafaring background, he now applies that same sense of discipline and leadership to managing the company’s crew operations. His role is both strategic and operational, balancing long-term planning with day-to-day decision-making. “The position I serve is multifaceted and demanding,” he explains. “A typical day can involve morning briefings, coordinating crew planning, compliance checks, problem-solving, and ongoing communication with seafarers and colleagues across departments.”
One of the most fulfilling aspects of his work is maintaining close interaction with people, particularly with those who serve at sea. “Supporting seafarers’ careers, well-being, and development from a strategic and human resources perspective is something I value greatly,” he says. His approach is grounded in empathy, experience, and a deep understanding of the challenges faced onboard. His work also extends beyond the organization, involving regular communication and coordination with external partners and third parties. These relationships are essential to crew operations and play an important role in maintaining the company’s strong reputation within the wider maritime community.
Since joining Scorpio, Capt. Panos has played a key role in numerous milestones that have shaped the company’s growth and global presence. Among his most memorable moments is the sense of satisfaction following the rapid expansion of the bulk carrier fleet, a project that demanded both precision and teamwork. Another highlight has been supporting the establishment of Optimum offices in Manila and Vladivostok, important steps in enhancing the company’s recruitment and training capabilities across different regions. Each initiative, he notes, reflects the organization’s ongoing commitment to developing its people and maintaining high operational standards.
Throughout his career, both at sea and ashore, Capt. Panos has remained guided by a few enduring principles: adaptability, focus, and self-belief. “You must be able to adapt to change, stay focused on your goals, and believe in yourself,” he says. His strength and perseverance have also been sustained by the unwavering support of his wife, Ines, who has stood by him for over 30 years through every challenge and triumph, and by his children, from whom he draws daily courage and inspiration.
Outside of work, Capt. Panos enjoys staying active and recently discovered a love for paddle. Just don’t hand him a microphone— he’s the first to admit: “never ask me to sing!”
Captain Q&A
What valuable lessons have you learned in your career?
The need to adapt to changes, stay focused on your goals, and believe in yourself.
What career advice would you give to younger professionals?
Stay curious so that you can grow; dare to be different and believe in yourself no matter what others say or think about you.
This article featured in Beacon 29, Scorpio seafarers can access and download all issues of the Beacon from DocMap while onboard.
