Polys Hajioannou is the Chief Executive Officer of Safe Bulkers, Inc. and has been Chairman of the company's board of directors since 2008. Mr. Hajioannou also serves with the company's Manager, and prior to its inception, the company's Manager's predecessor, Alassia Steamship Co., Ltd., which he joined in 1987. Mr. Hajioannou was elected as a member of the board of directors of the Union of Greek Shipowners in 2006 and served on the board until February 2009.

Mr. Hajioannou is also a founding member of the Union of Cyprus Shipowners. Mr. Hajioannou holds a bachelor of science degree in nautical studies from Sunderland University.