Nikitas Psyllakis

Nikitas Psyllakis graduated from Deree College in 1998, earning a BSc in Business Administration with double majors in Accounting & Finance and Management. During and following his studies, he gained invaluable experience working in Athens before fulfilling his military service obligations. Subsequently, he moved abroad to complete his MBA at the Rotterdam School of Management with a scholarship from the Onassis Public Benefit Foundation.

Embarking on an international career, Nikitas joined Deutsche Bank, where he held a series of senior roles over the span of two decades in Frankfurt and London, ultimately reaching the position of Managing Director. Most recently, he served as U.K. Country Head, EMEA and divisional Chief Operating Officer for the bank’s Asset Management business, DWS Group. Throughout his career, Nikitas has led global multidisciplinary teams, held management board seats in international subsidiaries, and helped achieve important milestones, such as growing successful international businesses, corporate transformations and initial public offerings (IPOs). Additionally, Nikitas has actively contributed as a member of international committees and industry associations, such as the U.K. Investment Association. He collaborates with other industry leaders, regulators, and government members to address and shape critical consumer and policy priorities, such as in the areas of sustainability and pensions.

Outside of his professional pursuits, Nikitas is an avid runner, having completed marathons in various European cities and a wine enthusiast, having obtained Sommelier certification from the Italian and U.K. Sommelier Associations.

Q&A

Q: What are three enduring values Deree has taught you?
Collaboration, Curiosity and Accountability

Q: Describe Deree in three words.
Memorable rewarding experience

Q: Which is your fondest memory from your time at Deree?
My first day and the rush of excitement and nervousness as I entered the campus

Q: What do you miss most from your days at Deree?
The cozy familiarity of favorite meet-up spots for both studying and socializing

Q: If you could go back in time, is there anything that you would do differently?
I would have tried to keep closer ties with the school

Q: Where was your favorite spot on campus?
The sports facilities

Q: Who was your favorite teacher and why?
Professor Katsaros, for his wisdom and wit

Q: After graduation, have you maintained a relationship with your school and classmates?
Sadly not, as I have been living abroad ever since, but I always enjoy crossing paths with alumni both in Greece and abroad

Q: Looking back, how did your time at Deree help you become the person you are today?
The skills and qualities honed throughout the academic journey, such as collaborating with peers on projects and immersing myself in the diverse academic and social environment of the institution, have proven invaluable

Q: What advice would you give a new Deree student?
You should fully embrace and leverage this exceptionally enriching academic and life experience to its utmost potential

Q: Where do you get your inspiration from?
From my family and the excitement about what lies ahead

Q: What is your motto in life?
Nelson Mandela said, in life you never lose, you either win or you learn

ACG Alumni: We Stay Connected!