Ms. Georgia Chantzi

Research and Policy Development Manager


Ms. Georgia Chantzi is responsible for the development and implementation of the research and policy programmes of ICBSS. She has more than ten years experience in policy advocacy and project management from various funding frameworks. Her expertise includes Black Sea regional cooperation, EU–Black Sea cooperation, blue economy, culture & tourism, and transnational organised crime.

Her other area of responsibility includes providing secretarial support to the ICBSS Board of Directors. 

Prior to joining ICBSS in 2010, she has worked at the Hellenic Management Association, and has interned as junior researcher at the Centre for Russia, Eurasia and SE Europe (CERESE), in Athens. She holds an MA in Terrorism, International Crime and Global Security from Coventry University, UK and a BA in International and European Studies from Panteion University of Social and Political Sciences, Greece.

Ms. Elpida Besi

Junior Project Manager


Ms. Elpida Besi is responsible for the administrative support of projects’ implementation, including related research activities and events.

Prior to joining the ICBSS, in 2021, she has interned at the Hellenic Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and has written articles for the Electionsnet.org. In 2020, Elpida was a finalist of the 10th Cycle of ReGeneration and, participated in two projects of KINITRO Non-Profit Organization. She has attended many conferences and online courses.

She holds a BA in International, European and Area Studies from Panteion University of Social and Political Sciences in Athens, Greece.

Ms. Fani Sampani

Communications and Events Officer


Ms. Fani Sampani is responsible for the ICBSS’ external and internal communications strategy, digital marketing and the organisation of events. Fani also supports the office administration.

Prior to ICBSS, she has worked for the International Organization for Migration, in Project Administration and Management Assistance, as well as in Supply Chain and Finance.

She has experience in project management processes and assistance to minorities, and has received training in security procedures and emergency situations.

Fani is currently studying to be an Accounting Executive.

Mr. Georgios Mitakis

Director of Finance