John Ioannis Jossifakis is recognized as a Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP) across the Middle East for his cutting-edge approach to event production. Through projects spanning over 100 countries, Jossifakis has leveraged his expertise to build impactful events that blend creativity, logistics, and technical precision.
Raised in a Greek-Cypriot family with roots in Canada and Cyprus, Jossifakis was fascinated with event production early on. His journey began at Northern Secondary High School, where he joined the Stage Crew and Set Crew, immersing himself in technical theater and falling in love with Stagecraft and Live shows. By coordinating stage setups, lighting design, and production logistics, Jossifakis gained hands-on experience with the mechanics of event execution, laying the foundation for his future career.
Jossifakis’ entry into the event industry was marked by rapid success, with high-profile projects showcasing his ability to integrate logistical precision with creative vision. His career took off with his role in the 2004 Olympic Games in Athens as a venue project manager. His responsibilities involved site technical design, crowd management, and various safety protocols, which required planning and real-time decision-making in high-pressure environments. In 2008, he returned to the Olympic stage as a technical advisor for the central object for the Opening Ceremony and victory ceremony planner and consultant for the Beijing Games Ceremonies.
Building on his Olympic experience, Jossifakis has worked as the ceremonies manager for several major sports events, including the role of Head of Ceremonies for the 2018 FIFA Club World Cup and the 2011, 2019 and the upcoming 2027 AFC Asian Cups. These roles required him to synchronize technical teams, manage large-scale operations, and seamlessly blend cultural elements into international events. His work on these global stages solidified his reputation as a specialist in event logistics, adept at transforming large spaces into dynamic venues that cater to both live audiences and global broadcasts.
One of Jossifakis’ unique specializations lies in fireworks and special effects. Certified by the Government of Canada to handle fireworks, pyrotechnics and cinematic explosives, he holds internationally recognized credentials that allow him to create safe yet spectacular displays. His skill in pyrotechnics involves a comprehensive understanding of explosive types, ignition control systems, and safety measures. Each display, from its conceptual design to its real-time execution, is meticulously crafted to synchronize with the event’s overall theme and timing, creating unforgettable visual experiences.
In addition to his hands-on production work, Jossifakis has served as a consultant for large-scale government projects in the Middle East. Countries like Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, and Saudi Arabia have sought his expertise to elevate national celebrations, public events, and high-profile gatherings. His consulting services often include strategic event planning, on-site management, and coordination between multiple stakeholders to ensure smooth execution in high-visibility settings.
Working as a consultant has allowed Jossifakis to influence event management practices within the Middle East, fusing and integrating international standards with local traditions. His approach is tailored to each project’s unique requirements, whether it’s a national holiday celebration or an international sports event. This consulting role has positioned him as a thought leader in the industry, bridging cultural contexts and elevating the region’s standards in event production.
Further expanding his influence, Jossifakis launched his own production company, J.J. Productions back in 2015. The company has handled concert tours for renowned artists, including Shakira, Ricky Martin, and the Scorpions, who demand high-quality production and seamless coordination. For these events, Jossifakis’ role extended beyond logistics to cover artist coordination, stage design, and audience management, ensuring each concert met both audience expectations and artist standards.
The logistical demands of these music tours require precise planning, from coordinating travel schedules and setting up performance venues to managing audience flow and security. Jossifakis’ background in technical show design and event planning allows him to tackle these challenges with a creative yet structured approach, ensuring that every detail, from sound checks to post-show breakdowns, runs smoothly.
Outside of his professional life, Jossifakis maintains a passion for athletics, particularly in the 10 Meter Olympic Air Pistol discipline, in which he competes representing Canada in international competitions. This precision sport aligns well with his meticulous nature and commitment to discipline, traits that also define his work in event management. His athletic pursuits offer an additional dimension to his career, highlighting his dedication to personal excellence and focus.
John Jossifakis’ career exemplifies the possibilities within the event management industry when creative vision meets technical skill. From handling complex international events and government consulting to mastering ceremonies and managing music tours, his contributions have elevated the standards of what large-scale event production can achieve.
