Natalia Margioli has made history as the first woman and first Greek member to become President of the Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers (ICS) in its 115-year history, succeeding Punit Oza following the Institute’s Controlling Council meeting in Cape Town, South Africa.
Margioli, who served as Vice President from 2024, brings more than two decades of experience in maritime education to the role. She is the Founder and Managing Director of the Hellenic Management Centre, a position she has held since 1999, and holds a BA in Business Administration and an MBA.
Jeffrey Blum was also elected Vice President at the meeting and will serve a two-year term, supporting Margioli as she takes the institute into its next chapter. Describing her appointment as “a great honour and privilege”, Margioli paid tribute to her predecessor, thanking Oza for his leadership and the foundations he laid during his two-year tenure.
She outlined a series of priorities for her presidency, including strengthening maritime education, increasing the value of ICS membership, improving collaboration among the Institute’s international branches and deepening engagement with the global shipping industry.
Reflecting on his time as President, Oza highlighted the institute’s increased visibility at both global and branch levels, alongside the development of a new five-year strategic plan and a refreshed Vision, Mission and Values framework. He welcomed Margioli’s appointment, praising her longstanding involvement with the Institute and expressing confidence in her leadership as she takes on the presidency.