OCIMF appoints Chevron’s Don Davis as managing director

Mr Davis joins the organisation at a pivotal moment, as OCIMF enters a new phase following the recent evolution of its mission and brand to support maritime safety across the wider energy sector.

He will join OCIMF on secondment from Chevron and assume the role on 1 July 2026, succeeding Karen Davis, who will remain with the organisation until the end of June to support a smooth leadership transition.

Mr Davis’ appointment comes at a significant milestone in OCIMF’s evolution. Under Ms Davis’ leadership, the organisation recently adopted its new mission, ‘United in purpose to drive maritime safety in the energy sector,’ reflecting its evolving role in supporting safe and responsible maritime operations across an increasingly diverse energy landscape.

As managing director, Mr Davis will guide OCIMF’s work to support maritime safety, environmental stewardship and operational best practice across the global maritime industry, while helping to deliver the organisation’s strategic priorities for the future.

Mr Davis has more than three decades of experience in tanker, barge, marine terminal and offshore vessel operations, and brings extensive expertise in maritime safety, operational assurance and leadership. He is also well known in OCIMF, having served for the past five years as Chevron’s representative on its publication and advocacy offshore committee, including the last four years as chair, and currently serves as Chevron’s alternate representative on the OCIMF executive committee.

OCIMF chair Lambros Klaudatos said, “We are delighted to welcome Don to OCIMF. He brings an exceptional combination of operational expertise, strategic leadership and deep industry knowledge. Having worked closely with OCIMF for many years, he has a strong understanding of our members, our mission and the challenges and opportunities facing the maritime industry.

“As the energy sector continues to evolve, maritime safety remains fundamental to our industry’s success. Don’s experience and commitment to collaboration and operational excellence make him exceptionally well placed to lead OCIMF through its next chapter.”

Lambros Klaudatos also paid tribute to Karen Davis for her contribution to the organisation. “Karen has provided outstanding leadership during her time as managing director and has helped position OCIMF for the future. She has overseen an important period of change for the organisation, including the successful launch of SIRE 2.0 and the development of OCIMF’s new mission and broader role across the energy sector. On behalf of the board and the wider OCIMF community, I would like to thank her for her dedication, professionalism and the significant contribution she has made to both the organisation and the industry.”

Mr Davis said, “It is a privilege to join OCIMF at such an important time for the maritime industry. As the global energy landscape continues to evolve, the industry’s commitment to safety, collaboration and operational excellence has never been more important.

“OCIMF plays a unique role in bringing stakeholders together to share knowledge, develop best practice and address emerging challenges. I look forward to working with members, industry partners and colleagues around the world to build on the organisation’s strong foundations and support its future ambitions.”