Following the conclusion of the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) Annual General Meeting and Board Meeting in Athens, which was opened by The Hon. Vassilis Kikilias, Minister of Maritime Affairs and Insular Policy, Hellenic Republic, the organisation announced several major developments, marking a pivotal moment for global maritime leadership.
The Board of ICS unanimously recommended John Denholm CBE as the successor to current Chairman, Emanuele Grimaldi. Mr. Denholm will take up the role following the conclusion of Mr Grimaldi’s term at the ICS AGM in June 2026. Mr. Denholm currently serves as Board Member for the UK and Vice Chair of ICS. He is also the Chairman of J. & J. Denholm Limited, a family-owned business with interests spanning shipping, logistics, seafoods, and industrial services.
ICS also confirmed the appointment of three new Vice Chairs, Dr Gaby Bornheim (Germany), Carl-Johan Hagman (Japan) and Claes Berglund (Sweden).
In a further transition in ICS leadership, Thomas Kazakos has formally succeeded Guy Platten as Secretary General. Former Director General of the Cyprus Shipping Chamber, Mr Kazakos joined ICS in April for a preparatory handover period, ensuring a smooth transition for the Chamber. The President of the Republic of Cyprus, The Hon. Mr Nikos Christodoulides joined the AGM for this significant moment, welcoming Mr Kazakos into the role and recognising Mr Platten’s seven years of service.
The Board also confirmed the full membership of the Malta International Shipowners Association. Formerly an Associate Member, Malta now joins as a Full Member of ICS. This advancement reflects Malta’s expanding influence in maritime affairs and comes at a time when global trade is undergoing substantial transformation.
Board discussions took place against a backdrop of mounting geopolitical uncertainty. There was a strong emphasis on the need for clear, unified leadership across the shipping industry as it navigates complex and evolving challenges.
Key topics of discussion included the new GHG reduction measures, which are due for formal adoption at the IMO’s extraordinary session in October, and which are expected to reshape the structure of the global shipping industry for years to come.
(Photo shows from left to right: Thomas Kazakos, Nikos Christodoulides, Emanuele Grimaldi and Guy Platten)