The International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) has unanimously appointed Thomas A. Kazakos as its new Secretary General, succeeding Guy Platten, who will step down in June 2025.
Thomas Kazakos Appointed Next ICS Secretary General
London – December 18: The International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) has unanimously appointed Thomas A. Kazakos as its new Secretary General, succeeding Guy Platten, who will step down in June 2025. Kazakos, currently the Director General of the Cyprus Shipping Chamber, has represented Cyprus in global maritime bodies since 1995.
Emanuele Grimaldi, ICS Chairman, praised the appointment, stating, “Thomas brings unparalleled experience and vision for the challenges ahead. He is the ideal leader to build on the remarkable progress achieved under Guy Platten’s tenure.”
Platten, reflecting on his six years in the role, highlighted ICS’s transformative contributions to decarbonization, energy transition, and seafarer welfare, expressing confidence in Kazakos to guide the organization through pivotal changes.
Kazakos, a maritime law expert and advocate, emphasized the critical need for resilient leadership as the industry faces significant changes, particularly around the IMO’s decarbonization agenda. “I’m honored to lead ICS and work closely with stakeholders to shape the future of our industry,” he said.
With a distinguished career in shipping and law, Kazakos is set to officially assume his role at the ICS AGM in Athens next June.
