The World Shipping Council (WSC) board of directors has elected Soren Toft, CEO of Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC), as the new chair of the WSC board, while vice chairman of Wan Hai Lines, Randy Chen, has been elected vice chair.
The new chair and vice chair succeed Rolf Habben Jansen, CEO of Hapag-Lloyd AG, and Jeremy Nixon, CEO of ONE, who have served as co-chairs of the WSC board for two terms, starting November 2020.
Soren Toft and Randy Chen will serve a two-year term, effective immediately, the WSC confirmed.
WSC president and CEO Joe Kramek highlights the extensive expertise that Mr Toft and Mr Chen will bring, and their contributions to the global shipping industry.
“I am looking forward to working with Soren Toft and Randy Chen in their new roles. Both are esteemed leaders with a proven track record of driving innovation and sustainability in the global shipping industry,” Mr Kramek said.
“Their experience and expertise will be instrumental in continuing to develop the World Shipping Council as the united voice of liner shipping.
Mr Kramek also extended his gratitude to Mr Jansen and Mr Nixon for their “exceptional leadership” over the past four years, during what Mr Krame said was a critical time for both the industry and WSC.
Mr Kramek described their commitment as having been instrumental in the council’s growth and development, strengthening its representation internationally and extending its scope of work.
“It is an honour to step into the role of Chair for the World Shipping Council and to represent the global liner shipping industry alongside our members,” said Mr Toft.
“WSC is today a respected voice of liner shipping, engaging with governments and organisations globally.
“An ever-changing world presents both challenges and opportunities for our industry as we head into the future, and I am eager to further advance our work to shape the future growth of a socially responsible, environmentally sustainable, safe and secure shipping industry.”
