John Denholm new chairman of ICS

The International Chamber of Shipping (ICS), which represents over 80% of the world’s commercial fleet as the leading global trade organization for shipowners and operators, has appointed John Denholm CBE as the new Chairman of the Board. This decision was made unanimously during the ICS Annual General Meeting, held today, June 22, 2026, at the Palazzo Valentini in Rome. Denholm succeeds Emanuele Grimaldi, who led the organization for four years and faced significant challenges and changes in international shipping during that time.

Denholm has been the Managing Director of the family-owned shipping company J. & J. Denholm since 1993 and currently holds the position of Executive Chairman at both J. & J. Denholm and Denholm Energy Services. He brings extensive experience from various leadership roles in the maritime industry, including the presidency of the UK Chamber of Shipping and BIMCO.

In his first statement as Chairman of the ICS, Denholm expressed that it is a great honor to take on this responsibility and represent the interests of an industry that is central to global trade and prosperity. He emphasized that he is stepping into his role at a time of significant upheaval and uncertainty for the world economy and international shipping. The industry must continue to address geopolitical tensions, security threats, rapid technological changes, the transition to new energy sources, and shifting trade patterns. Despite these challenges, shipping remains crucial for maintaining global trade and delivering goods, energy, and resources that societies rely on.

Thomas A. Kazakos, Secretary General of the ICS, welcomed Denholm as the new Chairman and highlighted his decades of experience as a shipowner, business leader, and industry representative. Kazakos also thanked Emanuele Grimaldi for his outstanding leadership over the past four years, which coincided with one of the most challenging periods in recent maritime history. Under Grimaldi’s leadership, the ICS supported the industry by responding to attacks on civilian shipping, adapting to significant changes in global trade patterns, and addressing a comprehensive program of international regulatory changes.

www.ics-shipping.org