ICS leadership transition sees board chair named, new secretary general

The International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) has initiated a leadership changeover that began with a transition to a new secretary general and confirmation of the appointment of a new board chair.

Chief executive of family owned J&J Denholm, ICS vice chair and UK board member John Denholm, has been appointed as ICS’ new board chair at the organisation’s annual general meeting (AGM). Mr Denholm has previously served as president of both the UK Chamber of Shipping and BIMCO, in the UK.

Mr Denholm will take up the role as ICS chairperson following the conclusion of Mr Grimaldi’s term at the ICS AGM in June 2026.

As part of its routine leadership transition cycle, Cyprus’ Thomas Kazakos formally succeeded Guy Platten as secretary general. As director general of the Cyprus Shipping Chamber, Mr Kazakos joined ICS in April for a preparatory handover period, ensuring a smooth transition for the Chamber. The president of the Republic of Cyprus, Nikos Christodoulides joined the AGM for this significant moment, welcoming Mr Kazakos into the role and recognising Mr Platten’s seven years of service.

Current ICS chair Emanuele Grimaldi referenced a busy maritime sector, noting the industry needs both strong governance and strong leadership and hailing the leadership changes at ICS. 

"John has been involved with ICS for years and I am pleased I will be able to pass the reins to such a knowledgeable leader who, with the support of the vice chairs and board will ensure shipowners’ interests are understood as we seek to be an organisation that provides solutions. I also welcome Thomas as our new secretary general. Thomas inherits a wonderful team and I know he will be a force for good as we continue to represent our industry on the world stage," Mr Grimaldi said.

"Finally, I must thank Guy Platten for all he has done over the past seven years. Guy has led ICS and our industry during a period of significant challenge, whether through Covid, responding to the Ever Given incident or navigating the intricacies of the decarbonisation agenda. Guy has increased the impact of ICS and helped our industry to navigate the challenges that we have faced."

The ICS board also confirmed the full membership of the Malta International Shipowners Association. Formerly an associate member, Malta now joins as a full member of ICS.

"This advancement reflects Malta’s expanding influence in maritime affairs and comes at a time when global trade is undergoing substantial transformation," the ICS said.