NEW YORK, NY –
The Hellenic Initiative (THI) announced on October 20 the appointment of John V. Vardinoyannis, Chairman and CEO of Motor Oil Hellas S.A., to its Board of Directors. A leader in Greek and international business, Vardinoyannis brings decades of entrepreneurial experience, vision, and commitment to Greece’s growth and prosperity, a press release issued by THI notes.
Born in 1962, John Vardinoyannis studied economics at Vassar College in the United States. He has been a member of the Motor Oil Hellas Board since 2005, becoming Executive Vice-Chairman in 2009. Since January 2021, he has served as CEO of Motor Oil Hellas, and in November 2024 he was appointed Chairman of the Board. Beyond Motor Oil Hellas S.A., he has been involved in a wide range of entrepreneurial endeavors in Greece and abroad, spanning upstream energy, shipping, real estate, banking, and travel accommodation.
Reflecting on his appointment,John V. Vardinoyannis stated: “I truly appreciate THI’s visionary mission to support Greece and its great accomplishments towards empowering communities, fostering economic growth, and transforming lives throughout Greece. Considering the strong, long-standing bonds between our family and THI, and following the steps of my parents, Vardis and Marianna, I am honored to be part of the THI family”.
“THI is proud to welcome John V. Vardinoyannis to our Board. In doing so, he follows in the steps of his late mother, Marianna, who was a dear member of our Board and, together with his father Vardis, a great supporter of everything Hellenic around the world. John’s leadership at Motor Oil and his wide-ranging entrepreneurial experience will help us expand our impact across Greece”, stated George P. Stamas, THI’s Board President.
Andrew N. Liveris, THI’s Board Chairman, noted that “John V. Vardinoyannis’ commitment to Greece and his distinguished record as a business leader make him an invaluable addition to our Board. The Hellenic Initiative unites the global Greek diaspora and philhellenes to deliver real impact in Greece — driving growth, empowering youth, and supporting communities in need. The Vardinoyannis family has long been a pillar of support for Greece, and John V. Vardinoyannis’ leadership continues that legacy, further amplifying THI’s global mission and impact”.
Founded in 2012, THI is the only global non-profit organization that unites Greeks around the world around philanthropy through investing in the future of Greece. Since its founding, THI has raised more than $38 million and has grown to be the largest Greek Diaspora organization in the world. For more information regarding the mission of THI, you can visit their website: thehellenicinitiative.org
