Maritime Emissions Reduction Centre appoints new managing director

The Maritime Emissions Reduction Centre (MERC) has appointed Nikos Kakalis as its new managing director.

Mr Kakalis, who currently serves as Lloyd’s Register’s (LR) global bulk carriers segment director, succeeds Stelios Korkodilos in leading the Athens-based non-profit industry collaboration, backed by several prominent Greek shipowning organisations.

The MERC counts well-known shipowners, including Capital Group, Navios Maritime Partners, Neda Maritime Agency, Star Bulk and Thenamaris Ships Management Inc, among its founders, along with enabling support from classification society Lloyd’s Register.  

As managing director, MERC said Mr Kakalis will drive the centre’s strategy, develop further its network of industry partners, and align its programmes with emerging regulatory and market developments shaping the energy transition.  

Mr Kakalis said, “Decarbonising the existing fleet is the defining challenge facing the maritime industry. The MERC provides a unique platform to bring together owners, operators, class and technology providers to deliver solutions that work in practice. I am excited to assume this role and to build on the strong foundation established by all of our partners.”

Mr Kakalis brings extensive technical and commercial experience to the role. During his four years with LR, he has led the organisation’s global bulk carrier strategy, guiding shipowners through the complex landscape of new fuels, energy-efficiency technologies and evolving regulation.  

Before joining LR, he held senior positions at DNV, where he managed R&D and advisory services in the Eastern Mediterranean, and at Bureau Veritas Marine Fuel Services, where he oversaw business development across marine fuel quality and sustainability.