The World Shipping Council (WSC) has named Joe Kramek as its next President and CEO, succeeding John Butler, who will retire at the end of July.
According to WSC, Kramek brings a wealth of experience and expertise to his new role, from both the maritime sector and government service.
Before stepping into the position of President and CEO, Kramek served as the WSC’s Director of U.S. Government Relations.
His professional experience includes 28 years as a commissioned officer in the U.S. Coast Guard, where he served at sea and as Chief of Maritime, International, and Environmental Law.
During his career in the Coast Guard, Kramek led the Unite delegation to the International Maritime Organization’s Legal Committee.
Kramek’s new job as President and CEO of the WSC positions him to lead the organisation into its next phase of development, aiming to create a socially responsible, ecologically sustainable, safe, and secure global marine trade.
Joe Kramek said: “I am deeply honoured to assume the role of President and CEO at the World Shipping Council, building on the foundation laid by John Butler. Together with the dedicated team at WSC, I look forward to addressing the evolving needs of the shipping industry and continue driving positive change.”
John Butler served as President and CEO of the WSC since 2015, originally joining as General Counsel for the association in 2010.
Butler stated: “It has been a privilege to lead the World Shipping Council during a time of significant growth and complexity in the maritime sector.
“I am confident that with Joe’s extensive experience and committed leadership, WSC will continue to flourish and develop even further, and I wish him, and the entire team continued success in the years ahead.”
In May 2023, WSC released its annual report on containers lost at sea for the year 2022, showing that 661 containers were lost overboard during the year.
