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European Community Shipowners’ Association appoints new president
Karin Orsel has been appointed president of the European Community Shipowners’ Association (ECSA)
Chief executive of ship management company MF Shipping Group since 2001, Ms Orsel is an industry veteran and also represents Dutch shipowners at the Royal Association of Netherlands Shipowners (KVNR) as the body’s president, and at the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS).
She assumed her position 1 January 2024 for a two-year term, succeeding Cypriot Philippos Philis, the founder of Lemissoler, becoming the first woman to hold the post.
ESL Shipping managing director Mikki Koskinen also joined as the ECSA as vice president. Mr Koskinen is a board member of the ICS and was chairman of the Finnish Shipowners’ Association from 2021to 2023.
“I am honoured to take over the ECSA presidency at such a pivotal moment,” said Ms Orsel commenting on her appointment, adding, “The strategic role of European shipping for the security of the Europe has come to the forefront. Our commitment is clear: to promote the energy transition of shipping, meet our climate targets and foster the sector’s competitiveness amid rapidly evolving geopolitical and security challenges. One of the main priorities of our industry is a people-centred transition. The upskilling and reskilling of our seafarers for the green and digital transition, at the same time keeping the sector attractive and future-proof, is a topic close to my heart.”
Mr Koskinen restated European ambitions to remain competitive while meeting climate targets. “To achieve this, it is essential to continue the constructive dialogue and co-operation with EU policymakers and stakeholders. In my new position as ECSA vice-president, I look forward to working with Karin Orsel, ECSA members and the team as we strive to leverage the potential of European shipping for Europe.”
Over at the Norwegian Shipping Association, Harald Solberg has stepped down from his position as managing director. Mr Solberg resigned from his position to take up a similar position in Norwegian industry.
The board of the Norwegian Shipping Association thanked him for his six-year tenure and said the process of recruiting a new replacement has begun.
Mr Solberg will continue in the position for six months, or until another solution is in place. “I have had a very exciting period as leader of the Norwegian Shipping Association. Norwegian shipping is a leader in developing and adopting technology and new solutions to reduce shipping’s emissions. I am particularly proud of the way members in all segments are taking leadership and investing in future zero-emissions solutions. The Shipping Association has been a driving force behind good and competitive framework conditions for shipping and the maritime industry in Norway. I am happy about the broad political consensus in Norway that we will continue to be a strong maritime nation,” said Mr Solberg.
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