Although planning the succession in a family business is rather complex, in the case of Nautilus everything seems to have taken its course. A course designed 30 years ago by the first generation and delivered today to the next generation. Giannis Tsavdaridis and Goni Agapidou are ready to hand over the baton to Katerina and Alexandros Tsavdaridis along with a strong vote of confidence for an even more successful and progressive course for the acclaimed yacht equipment company.
Yiannis Tsavdaridis & Goni Agapidou
What do you consider to be the most defining moment in Nautilus’ journey?
YT: The most defining moment in the course of the company was when we decided with our late partner, co-founder and friend Dimitris, to open our first store in Athens, which was to become the springboard of a successful business.
GA: I also believe that the greatest milestone in Nautilus’ course was when we made the decision to open our second store in Athens.
What would you describe as your greatest achievement?
YT: On a personal level, my greatest success is my family, namely our children. As they grow up, they prove to us that we did something well in this life. They are truly remarkable people, not only because they went on to study, but because they hold on to values with which they progress in life. On a professional level, I’d say it’s the course of the company over the years and its recognition by the greatest brands in Greece and abroad.
GA: Making my family is undoubtedly the answer to your question. What makes me feel proud is their perspective on life and their smile. The best thing I could have in life is my family.
Katerina & Alexandros Tsavdaridis
How easy or difficult is it to coexist with your parents at work too?
KT: Coexisting as a family in the workplace can often bring tension or lots of confrontations. In our case, as we all have a common vision and great passion for a company that started from scratch, the emotional bond helps us to quickly overcome any arising problems. Quite often the balance is disturbed, but by setting clear boundaries, conflicts are resolved much more easily.
AT: The fact that our parents also have the role of managers at work undoubtedly complicates our relationship. Of course, there are moments when we disagree, but most of the times we manage to find solutions together to the problems we face as a company. Together we form a very strong team, where the knowledge and experience of our parents are combined with the innovative ideas of our generation.
Do you feel ready to take over the reins of the business and lead Nautilus even higher?
KT: We have already worked for 4 years in the company and, having the constant support of our parents, we’ve worked in all the posts in our company. As a result, we are in a position to take the reins of Nautilus and develop it further with our novel ideas.
AT: I believe that we are quite close to the point where the new generation of the company can cope with the demands and constitute the new management and we are already going through a gradual transition. However, we believe that our parents have the final say and that they will find the most appropriate time to finalise the transition.
Read the full article in the new Skipper OnDeck issue 70!
