Prominent Canadian shipping figure Paul Pathy began his term today as President of BIMCO, the world’s largest shipping association, with a pledge to focus on current challenges facing the maritime industry, including threats against free trade, geopolitical tensions and seafarer safety.
President & CEO of Fednav Limited, Canada’s biggest dry bulk shipping company, Mr. Pathy was elected at the organisation’s general meeting in Copenhagen. He takes over as the 47th President and is the first BIMCO President from the Americas. He has succeeded Nikolaus H. Schües who has finished his two-year term.
“I am honoured to take on the role of President at BIMCO,” Mr. Pathy declared. “Our industry faces significant challenges, and I am committed to raising awareness about the invaluable contributions of the shipping industry and seafarers.
“We are at a critical juncture where free trade is under threat and geopolitical tensions are escalating. It is crucial that we support our industry, ensure the safety of our seafarers and facilitate a global marketplace.”
Paul Pathy is the third generation of CEOs in the family business which he joined in 2003 as Vice President and General Manager of Federal Marine Terminals. He became Senior Vice President of the Business Development Group in 2007 and took over as sole CEO of the company in 2017.
Mr. Pathy holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Emory University in Atlanta and a law degree (JD) and Masters of International Management (MIM), both from the University of Denver in Colorado.
BIMCO Presidents serve a two-year term. To ensure organisational continuity, the President Designate sits on the Board for two years before being put up for election as President. The outgoing President remains on the Board for an additional two-year term as Immediate Past President after which Past Presidents are ex-officio Board members.
Mr. Pathy takes over after a two-year period as President Designate. At the general meeting, BIMCO Vice-President and Board Member, Ioanna Procopiou of Prominence Maritime SA, an Athens-based ship management company, was elected as President Designate.
(Photos of Paul Pathy and BIMCO headquarters)