The International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) has appointed John Denholm as Chairman of its Board of Directors at the organisation’s Annual General Meeting in Rome. Denholm succeeds Emanuele Grimaldi, who has led ICS since June 2022 through a period marked by geopolitical tensions, supply chain disruption and sweeping regulatory changes across the shipping industry.
A chartered accountant by training, Denholm joined the family-owned J. & J. Denholm shipping business before becoming Chief Executive in 1993. He currently serves as Executive Chairman of J. & J. Denholm and Denholm Energy Services, and has previously held senior roles with the UK Chamber of Shipping and BIMCO.
“It is a great honour to be appointed Chairman of the International Chamber of Shipping and to represent an industry that underpins global trade and prosperity,” Denholm said. He noted that shipping continues to navigate geopolitical tensions, security threats, technological change, the energy transition and shifting trade patterns while maintaining its vital role in global commerce.
ICS Secretary General Thomas Kazakos welcomed the appointment, citing Denholm’s extensive experience as a shipowner, business leader and industry representative. Kazakos also thanked Grimaldi for his leadership during one of the most challenging periods for international shipping, including attacks on commercial vessels and disruptions to key global trade routes.