Early Life
Stelios Haji-Ioannou was born in Athens, Greece, on February 14, 1967. He is of Greek Cypriot descent. His father, Loucas Haji-Ioannou, was a ship-owner. Stelios studied at the London School of Economics (graduating in 1987) and City University Business School.
Rise to Success
Haji-Ioannou's career began with his involvement in his father's shipping company before starting his own company, Stelmar Shipping, at age 25. Stelmar was later sold for approximately $1.3 billion in 2005. The most significant achievement came with the founding of EasyJet in 1995. The low-cost airline revolutionized air travel in Europe. He also launched easyGroup, a private investment vehicle that licenses the "easy" brand. In 2006, he received a knighthood for his services to entrepreneurship.
Key Business Strategies
EasyJet's business model was inspired by Southwest Airlines, with a focus on low fares. He has extended the “easy” brand to various ventures, all offering “more value for less”. His strategy involved using the internet for online bookings and aggressive marketing. He also has a focus on asset-light sectors. The EasyGroup also has a rigorous legal policy of stopping brand theft (unauthorised use).
Philanthropy
Haji-Ioannou is committed to philanthropy and established the Stelios Philanthropic Foundation. Through his foundation, he supports education, entrepreneurship, and environmental initiatives in the UK, Greece, Cyprus, and Monaco. He signed the Giving Pledge in 2017.