The Cyprus Shipping Chamber (CSC) announced that its director general Thomas Kazakos, has been appointed secretary general of the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS).

This makes Kazakos the first Cypriot to lead the global organisation. His term is set to begin on April 1, 2025.

According to the announcement, Kazakos was selected unanimously by the ICS board of directors from a field of internationally recognised candidates.

The chamber noted that this appointment marks a significant moment for Cyprus, as the ICS has been a leading voice in global shipping for over a century.

Headquartered in London, the ICS represents national shipowners’ associations responsible for more than 80 per cent of the world’s merchant fleet.

The organisation plays a vital role in advocating for the shipping industry at major international bodies, including the International Maritime Organisation (IMO).

The CSC described the development “as a major milestone for Cypriot shipping”.

It added that that “Kazakos’ appointment is a special honour for Cypriot shipping and Cyprus in general”.

The chamber also extended its support for Kazakos as he prepares to take on this important role.

It wished “Kazakos every success in the great challenge he is taking on in such a critical period for international shipping”.

“We look forward to working closely with him, in his new capacity and position, to resolve the many issues facing the shipping industry,” the chamber added.

Emanuele Grimaldi, Chairman of the International Chamber of Shipping, said “After a thorough search and interview process, my board is delighted to confirm the appointment of Thomas Kazakos to this important position for our industry. The coming decade will be pivotal for our industry, and it was important that we got the right person to lead ICS.”

According to him, Kazakos brings a wealth of experience within the ICS community and the entire shipping industry. “He is the ideal candidate to build on the great work that Guy has delivered over the past six-plus years,” he added.

Grimaldi also emphasised the contributions of Guy Platten, the outgoing ICS Secretary General, saying: “Through Guy’s leadership, ICS has been at the forefront of developments in our industry, whether in decarbonisation, energy transition, safety, or seafarer welfare. I am grateful to him for his professionalism both in leading ICS and for the continuity plan that he has put in place to ensure that ICS continues to lead our industry in the decades to come.”

He further noted “Guy will leave ICS in a robust state, not only in the way it leads the agenda on so many issues but also in maintaining sound finances.”

The recruitment process, Grimaldi explained, was undertaken by the international search firm Odgers Berndtson. He added that members of the ICS board from across the world were actively involved in the interview process, emphasizing the global significance of the appointment.

Kazakos said “I am very proud to have been selected to become the next Secretary General of ICS, taking over from Guy next June. In my role with the Cyprus Shipping Chamber, I have seen first-hand and have contributed to the vital work that ICS undertakes.”

According to him, the coming years will bring significant change for the industry and its members. “It is vital that we have a strong and resilient organisation to ably represent their views,” he added.

Kazakos emphasised the importance of addressing the IMO’s decarbonisation agenda, stating: “The IMO’s decarbonisation agenda is obviously front and centre for our industry, and I know ICS is working closely with the IMO, governments, and other stakeholders to develop a credible system to support the transition.”

He also noted the broader scope of challenges ahead, saying “But there is so much more to do, and I am excited to be given this opportunity to lead the amazing team at ICS and to work with our members as we address the many challenges that our industry encounters.”

Guy Platten said “The last six-plus years have undoubtedly been the most rewarding of my career, and it has been a privilege to have been Secretary General. I am so proud of the way that the ICS team has stepped up to the many challenges thrown at us and the way that our industry has changed from one that too often just responded, to an industry that seeks to shape its future.”

Reflecting on his tenure, he said “During my time as Secretary General, I have been supported by two wonderful chairmen, Emanuele Grimaldi and Esben Poulsson, along with an engaged and dedicated board and their associations.”

He added “We have been able to strengthen the team at ICS, and I am immensely proud of what they have achieved and what we will achieve before I finally step down next June at our AGM and Conference in Athens.”

Platten concluded by expressing his confidence in his successor. “I know that Thomas will have a great team around him when he takes over the reins, and I wish him and them fair winds and following seas,” he said.