Grimaldi Group managing director Emanuele Grimaldi has succeeded Esben Poulsson as chairman of the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS).
Esben Poulsson, Executive Chairman at ENESEL PTE. LTD has served a full three terms as chair since he took the position in 2016.
Grimaldi has experience in similar roles, serving as president of Confitarma and of the European Community Shipowners Association (ECSA). He was nominated last year and formally voted in by the ICS board.
“I am honoured to represent the shipping industry at this crucial juncture in our history. I hope to build on the legacy of my predecessor Esben Poulsson, and continue to drive meaningful change within the sector and work closely with UN bodies,” Grimaldi said.
“The world is changing, and shipping must change with it. Fundamental transformation to our fuel supplies, our technology, and the skillsets of our workforce will define the direction shipping takes this decade. I’m excited to say that we are confronting the challenge head on.
“While we are not immune from the challenges that face the global economy, we are resilient. I am confident that the sector will remain a force for good on the international stage, facilitating the movement of vital supplies to those who need them most,” said Grimaldi.
ICS said that Grimaldi will work alongside secretary general Guy Platten to find solutions to issues including ongoing crew change issues, the energy transition, digitalisation, and diversity.
“I’m pleased to welcome long-time board member, Emanuele Grimaldi, to the position of Chairman. I have full faith in him and look forward to working closely together to advance the maritime sector and support our seafarers,” said Platten.
“I cannot thank outgoing chair, Esben Poulsson, enough for his six years of leadership and companionship. Expertly navigating ICS through several major events, including the Covid-19 crew change crisis, a rise in piracy, and the Suez Canal blockage.”
Source: Seatrade Maritime News
