STAR Rtn. Nicolas Souvlakis: A Swiss Engineer Turned Global Business Leader

His parents are of different nationalities. He grew up in another country, married his girlfriend from another nation, and spent his family life in many other places. An engineer by profession, he let go of his passion for the exact science and soon found himself embracing a sweet spot for human communication and human relationship. An open-minded individual, he would always welcome opportunities that come along his way—one of which is working in one of the world’s leading international tobacco companies which provided him the opportunity to travel to many parts of the globe. His latest workspace and newfound diving paradise—the Philippines. Read more about his story in this short-but-sweet interview.

Rhea Vitto Tabora (RVT): Please share something about yourself that your fellow Rotarians might not readily know.

Nicolas Souvlakis (NS): My mother is Italian, but she was born in France, my dad is Greek, my wife is Polish, and I was born and raised in Switzerland. My children were born in Switzerland, Italy and Portugal. So, I consider myself quite multicultural.

RVT: I understand you’re a mechanical engineer by profession. Tell us about how you got into the cigarette manufacturing industry and how you grew to the leadership role you're in today.

NS: I was first passionate about engineering but realized quickly that it was not enough to make me happy. In fact, human relationship is what gives me the most satisfaction in my work and my life. Philip Morris International has a significant presence in Switzerland where I lived, and that’s where I decided to apply for a job 26 years ago. I was happy having the chance to work in a multinational company, grow my career, assumed different roles and responsibilities, and evolve myself in different countries over the past few years.

RVT: What's the best part of leading a team or organization?

NS: The most rewarding part for me is seeing people I have worked with, or hired, improve themselves and become successful. That’s what ‘leading’ people means to me—developing them, trusting them, giving them opportunities and independence to grow themselves. If they become successful, we need not worry about the business; it will be successful too!

RVT: As an expatriate, what do you enjoy most about working overseas?

NS: Discovering the country, the culture and people’s habits. Trying all kinds of things is always a super enriching experience. It teaches us to become more open and tolerant.

RVT: What do you miss most in your home country that you cannot find in the Philippines?

NS: Definitely, the snow and ski! I am a fan of it. But, I am a diver too, and the Philippines is a great place for diving! I enjoy doing it, so I survive here without skiing.

RVT: Did your life turn out how you imagined?

NS: I am not sure if I have a precise view of how I wanted my life to be. I am always very optimistic and open minded, so I grab opportunities as they appear, and yes, I am very happy about what I have done so far.

RVT: Looking back at your life thus far, what are you most proud of?

NS: Definitively my family and four children.

RVT: What do you know now that you wish you had learned earlier in life?

NS: Being more patient sometimes, and more understanding, knowing that there are many ways of looking at things. And it is better to be more open and listen to various opinions before taking a decision.

RVT: What do you enjoy doing most with your free time?

NS: I love doing sports, spending time with friends and families, barbecuing and having good glasses of wine. I love travelling too.

RVT: What inspired you to join the Rotary Club of Manila?

NS: I joined the Rotary in Switzerland and I loved the spirit of the club—the impact it can have on communities and the feeling to be useful for someone. So, naturally, when I learned I will be moving to Manila, I got interested to continue my life here as a Rotarian.