In early 1994 John spent two months at Hitachi Zosen’s Maizuru works’ shipyard, where he oversaw the final stages of construction of two panamax bulk carriers. Upon completion of the first panamax, John spent five months onboard as an apprentice officer. During this time he gained an appreciation for what life at sea is all about; the sacrifices that seafarers make and the hard work involved in running a bulk carrier.

In late 1994, John started work at his family’s brokerage and agency business, John Samonas & Sons, as a trainee broker, while also attending the Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers where he specialized in Dry cargo Chartering and Maritime law.

In 2000 John was promoted to chartering manager, responsible for a fleet of five panamax bulk carriers. At this stage he was concluding 25 fixtures a year.

In 2001, John was appointed strategic consultant for chartering at Efploia Shipping Co whilst still chartering manager of John Samonas and sons.

In 2007 John left both his positions at John Samonas & Sons and at Efploia shipping company in order to start up Samonas brothers with his brother Leon.