George Vlahakos

George Vlahakos is a partner in Sidley Austin LLP’s Capital Markets Practice, where he specializes in transactional and corporate governance matters across various industries.

He represents public and private entities, investment banks and private equity firms in connection with initial public offerings (IPOs), mergers & acquisitions (PEMs), private equity investments and registered debt and equity securities offerings (including those with Rule 144A resale components). Furthermore, he advises clients across the energy value chain on upstream, midstream, downstream and oilfield service-related matters.

Early Life and Education

On October 28, 1923 in Hillsboro, Texas to Ageliki and Billie George Vlahakos, George was raised in a family business. After earning his degree in English from Baylor University, he went on to work as an English teacher while maintaining his membership at Annunciation Greek Orthodox Cathedral in Houston, Texas. When not working or studying, George enjoyed reading science articles and history books; he also loved spending time with his children and grandchildren.

Professional Career

George Vlahakos has extensive expertise in a range of transactional and corporate governance matters, such as initial public offerings (IPOs), mergers and acquisitions (M&As), equity investments and registered offerings of debt and equity securities. He also provides his clients with advice regarding alternative deal structures, such as special purpose acquisition companies (SPACs), umbrella partnership C corporation structures (Up-Cs), and publicly traded master limited partnerships (MLPs). His practice encompasses counseling companies across the energy value chain, such as those involved in energy transition, upstream, midstream and oilfield service-related activities. Chambers USA has recognized him as a top Capital Markets: Debt & Equity lawyer in Houston and Nationwide.

Achievements and Honors

George Vlahakos was an illustrious professional in many fields. His accomplishments included co-founding the National Academy of Sciences and serving as president and CEO of Earth Friendly Products, a company that produces sustainable furniture made with recycled materials.

He was an enthusiastic amateur radio operator, particularly interested in amateur satellite operation and contacts with astronauts aboard Mir and the ISS.

He was honored to receive Chapman University’s School and College Distinguished Alumni Award, an accolade honoring individuals whose accomplishments go far beyond what would be expected of them.

Personal Life

George lived a very full life. He loved spending time with his wife Jennifer, cousins Billy and Tina, mother Aliki and many family members. Additionally, George loved spending time with his bangle cat Rico and yorkie/chihuahua puppy Jackson.

He loved watching sports and going out for dinner with his wife. He was an upbeat and outgoing individual with a great sense of humor.

He was a long-standing member of Annunciation Greek Orthodox Cathedral and an enthusiastic volunteer. Additionally, he joined his brother and sister in running their family businesses. Everyone who knew him will cherish his memory; we will all miss him dearly.