By Jite Eriabie
The International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) has announced the appointment of Guy Platten as its new Secretary General, taking over from Peter Hinchliffe sometime in mid-2018.
ICS Chairman, Esben Poulsson said, “This proved a difficult decision for us, as we interviewed several strong candidates. However, the decision to appoint Guy was taken unanimously by the Board. He will bring with him a broad range of skills including time at sea, demonstrable commercial success, and association work illustrated by his current successful tenure at the UK Chamber of Shipping.”
Platten has been the CEO of UK Chamber of Shipping since January 2014 where his role included being responsible for the UK shipping industry’s relations with government and other relevant bodies.
“In a fast changing world, ICS, like any successful association, needs to be more aware than ever of the needs and demands of its members and to truly add value, be it on the regulatory front or in respect of the numerous other challenges facing the industry,” Poulsson said.
On the news of his appointment, Guy Platten said, “Peter Hinchliffe has done an incredible job as Secretary General and is a hard act to follow. I am proud to be given the opportunity to take ICS forward at such an important time for shipping.
“The amount of ongoing legislation is considerable – CO2 reduction, ballast water management, sulphur emissions – and the shipping community is looking to ICS for leadership and support. Shipping is at the centre of the world stage and I am looking forward to contributing to that important work. It is going to be good to work with Peter to ensure a smooth transition and I acknowledge his outstanding stewardship of the ICS.”
ICS also announced that Simon Bennett, currently Director Policy and External Relations, has been promoted to the position of Deputy Secretary General.
Hinchliffe said he planned to withdraw from the post early last year after being ICS Secretary-General since mid-2010.
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