Conference Speakers 2021

Conference Chairman & Editor
The Maritime Standard

Clive is the editor of The Maritime Standard, a regular e-newsletter aimed specifically at the shipping and maritime community in the Middle East and the Indian Subcontinent, providing up-to-date news and analysis from the shipping and ports industries and related sectors and has also edited The recently published Maritime Standard UAE Yearbook 2018/19, the most comprehensive review of recent activities and future plans in the UAE’s maritime sector. Clive is a well-respected freelance journalist and has been writing about shipping, ports and logistics related issues since 1982. For more than 35 years he has contributed to some of the leading publications in the industry, including Lloyds List, Cargo Systems, Container Management and Containerisation International.

See more at: flagshipme.com

CEO
ADNOC Logistics & Services

Capt Abdulkareem Al Masabi is leading ADNOC Logistics & Services, an ADNOC company formed in 2017 from three ADNOC Group companies (ADNATCO-IRSHAD AND ESNAAD).
Before assuming his current role in April 2018, Captain Abdulkareem Al Masabi was the Executive Vice-President of the Ports Unit at Abu Dhabi Ports, where he was responsible for all of Abu Dhabi Ports’ day-to-day operational activities.
Prior to this role, Al Masabi was the Vice President at Khalifa Port. He joined Abu Dhabi Ports as Senior Operations Manager in 2009 with over 11 years’ experience in the shipping and ports industry.

Before joining Abu Dhabi Ports, he was marine operations manager with the National Gas Shipping Company, an ADNOC Group company. Before that, he was a senior marine superintendent with Gulf Energy Maritime. For the eight years before that, he was with NGSCO, where he rose through the ranks on board the company’s LNG/oil tankers, from third officer to master/chief officer, where he provided operational leadership for the ports’ growth. While there, he led the Khalifa Port to being named Port of the Year in 2014 and 2015. He also was recognized as the Outstanding VP/ EVP at the Abu Dhabi Award of Excellence in 2017.

Capt Abdulkareem graduated from South Tyneside college from UK as a Master Mariner in addition he has an executive Masters in Business Administration, business Administration and management, general (2013-1014).

CEO
ASYAD Shipping and Drydock Services

Dr. Ibrahim Al Nadhairi assigned as the CEO of both Asyad Shipping and Drydock Companies in 2020, leading a workforce of over 5,000 employees on a journey toward maritime and logistics excellence, with a milestone to achieve an integrated and highly efficient maritime services with comprehensive marine offerings that meet ASYAD Group’s aspirations of providing global markets with end-to-end logistics including turning around the sector’s loss making business.

Dr. Al Nadhairi is a member of few local and international business boards and chairing two of them, has undergone extensive executive training at INSEAD and is a UK qualified marine engineer with MBA and Ph.D. in Shipping and Logistics. Has over 22 years of experience in leadership, business development, performance improvement of cyclical businesses, and change management.

President
Bahri Ship Management

32-year experience with Saudi Aramco, Vela International Marine Ltd, and Bahri.

Khalid Alhammad joined Saudi Aramco in 1990 as an Instrument Repairman and was sponsored by the company in 1992 to complete his Electrical & Electronics engineering degree from Oregon State University. In 1997 he became an Operations Engineer at Ras Tanura Terminal Department working in the Onshore and Offshore facilities. In
2002 Khalid left Aramco and joined Vela sailing on its fleet for two years gaining experience and knowledge in ship’s operations.

In 2004 Khalid moved to South Korea and worked on Vela’s newbuilding projects as an Inspector, progressing to Site Manager covering the newbuilding of four Product Tankers and ten VLCC’s.

Khalid returned to Vela’s head office in 2011 as Technical Manager for dry-docking and projects. In 2014, he became Vela’s Fleet Manager and moved over to the same position after the merger with Bahri. He progressed through the ranks to become Fleet Director, subsequently to VP Fleet Management, and now President of Bahri Ship
Management.

CEO, Maritime Cluster & SAFEEN Group
AD Ports Group

Captain Ammar Mubarak Al Shaiba is the CEO of the Maritime Cluster and SAFEEN Group, part of AD Ports Group. In his role, he leads the development of marine services, shipping operations and assets, including eleven (11) operational units comprising more than 135 vessels and marine units.

Joining the organisation back in 2013 in Harbour Master Division, Capt. Al Shaiba was promoted to Khalifa Port Harbour Master atm AD Ports Group’s flagship deepwater port as well as at Zayed Port, in addition to carrying out development and executive projects for Marine and Port operations in Khalifa Port, as part of the Group’s strategic expansion plan.

From 2017 to 2019, he held the position of Chief Harbour Master to oversee the development and implementation of regulations governing the safe navigation of vessels and managing fleet traffic within port waters and enforcing local, federal, and international best practices within commercial ports.

During his tenure with AD Ports Group, Capt. Al Shaiba has served as the CEO of Ports Operating Company and Managing Director of Zayed Port, the Free Port, as well as Musaffah Port, where he managed port optimisations and automation within operations while extending strategic growth within the Group’s operations. He also oversaw SAFEEN Feeders, a subsidiary of AD Ports Group that serves mainliner shipping clients and supports trade through increased connectivity and optimised shipping costs within and beyond the region.

He holds a Professional Master of Business Administration (PMBA) and an Advanced Diploma in Nautical Science from the University of Tasmania in Australia. Capt. Al Shaiba also holds a Chief Mate/Master Certificate from the Australian Maritime College (AMC) issued by the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA). He is a member of the International Harbour Masters Association (IHMA), the International Association of Ports & Harbours (IAPH) and several other respected committees within the Maritime industry.

Manager – Oil Terminals Commercial
DP World

Shehab Al Rahma has 19 years of progressive experience in Terminal Operations, Strategic Planning, and business growth throughout various international market sectors. He has maintained the highest performance standards within a diverse range of management level roles and adept at working within local and international guidelines to achieve exceptional results.

His records shows a track of success in leading the commercial and business development by developing and implementing effective strategies aimed at strengthening the company's market position.

Graduated in 2001 from U.S., holding bachelor’s degree in Science and Business Administration from University Of Colorado. He has also obtained a Graduate Diploma in Maritime & Port Management from the National University of Singapore in Singapore and Master of Quality Management from the University of Wollongong in Dubai; in addition to completing international leadership programs.

Currently, Shehab holds the position Manager – Oil Terminals Commercial UAE Region, overseeing major international liquid bulk terminals as a support to their port operations, and facilitating their storage tank developments and expansions within DP World UAE Region - Jebel Ali port.

CEO
Sohar Port & Freezone

Emile Hoogsteden is an entrepreneurial executive with experience of over thirty years in developing global business partnerships in commercial shipping, ports, and the logistics industry. He will lead SOHAR Port into the next stage of expansion, robust business growth and energy transition towards becoming a fully integrated industrial port and logistics hub.

Results-driven with a focus on global trading and shipping lanes, the industry veteran will aim to accomplish SOHAR Port and Freezone’s potential as an engine for economic diversification, sustainability, and investment to meet Oman’s development goals. He boasts a strong track-record in the Senior Management Teams at P&O Nedlloyd B.V, APM Terminals International B.V and most recently the Port of Rotterdam where he was Vice President Commercial.

In conjunction with a commercially orientated mindset, as well as experience in dealing with international governmental authorities, Emile also possesses considerable expertise in defining and executing Commercial Digitalization strategies. During his career, Emile has been i.a. Member of the Board of the Sohar Industrial Port Company, Sohar International Development Company, Rotterdam Port Promotion Council, International Logistics Promotion Council, Greenport Venlo and Blocklab (Rotterdam Blockchain Fieldlab).

Emile holds a Master’s degree of Corporate Law from the Erasmus University of Rotterdam, The Netherlands, and a host of diplomas in management and leadership.

COO
Lloyd's Register

Mark joined Lloyd’s Register as a Marine Surveyor in 2000 and is currently the Business Director for LR’s Marine & Offshore business. He is responsible for the Marine and Offshore business - overseeing commercial and business planning and developing strategies to improve the company’s competitive position. His aim is to lead, implement and communicate a global marine and offshore business strategy, establish a clear vision, and achieve operational goals for safety, quality, and financial performance.

A product of LR’s Graduate Training scheme, during his career with LR, Mark has worked as a ship surveyor Dubai, before taking on various operational, business and leadership roles across Asia, the Americas, Europe and the Middle East. In April 2020 he became the Chief Operating Officer for the Marine & Offshore business, based in Shanghai, before taking on the role of Business Director in January 2021.

Mark is a qualified Naval Architect, a graduate of the University of Strathclyde

Chairman & Managing Director
The Shipping Corporation of India

Capt. Binesh Kumar Tyagi has taken over as Chairman and Managing Director of Shipping Corporation of India Ltd. with effect from 03.09.2022. Capt. Binesh Kumar Tyagi also hold the charge of Chairman and Managing Director of Shipping Corporation of India Land and Assets Ltd. (SCILAL) w.e.f. 03.09.2022 and was erstwhile heading the Liner and Passenger Services Division as Director (L&PS), since 7^th January 2021.

Capt. Tyagi earlier held additional charge of Director (T&OS) and Director (P&A) at SCI, and continues to hold additional charge of Director (L&PS) since 03.09.2022. He is also appointed as CMD, ICSL w.e.f. 03.09.2022 and presently on Board of North of England Protecting & Indemnity Association Ltd (now NorthStandard Limited) and India LNG Transport (ILT) Company No. 1, 2, 3 & 4. He is also serving as Director on board of Indian Register of Shipping (IRS).

Capt. Tyagi is an IIMA alumni and also a member of various professional bodies like ICS (London), CILT, NMIS, Nautical Institute London, Institute of Directors and a fellow member of CMMI. Capt. Tyagi is also appointed as Chairman and Member of ABS India National Committee, Member of the South Asia Committee of DNV GL, Lloyd’s Register South Asia Advisory Committee and Indian Committee of ClassNK.

In his distinguished Shipping career spanning over 33 years in SCI, he has held many responsible appointments, both Afloat and Ashore. After graduation, Capt Tyagi joined SCI in 1990, as Trainee Nautical Officer (TNOC). He served on board various ships, in different ranks, including as Master. In 2004, he was absorbed ashore, wherein he served at various Management level positions and performed Technical, Vetting, Chartering, Training, Marine HR, Liner, Passenger, Inland Waterways, offshore and S&P functions.

He is a well-rounded shipping professional with qualification & experience in Ship operation, Navigation, Chartering, General Shipping Management, Port Development & Management and Law.

Capt. Tyagi has also been felicitated by various National and International Institutions in the industry, in which latest addition is the ‘Life Time Achievement’ Award bestowed to him at the 18^th edition of ShipTek Awards, Kochi in the month of May, 2023.

CEO
Lila Global

Steve Kunzer is a maritime industry veteran with over 30 years of experience. He assumed the role of CEO at Lila Global, a prominent dry bulk and tanker operator, on 6 February 2023, where he is committed to leading the company to new heights. Steve's illustrious career is marked by his outstanding leadership and profound expertise in managing extensive fleets comprising more than 100 vessels across various sectors, including bulk
carriers, crude oil, product and chemical tankers, LPG tankers, and Pure Car and Truck Carriers (PCTC).

Throughout his career, Steve has held pivotal positions at prestigious companies in Singapore, China, and Hong Kong, which provided him with a wealth of experience and insight into the maritime industry. Notably, he has previously served as the Managing Director at Tanker Pacific Management and as the Chief Executive at Eastern Pacific Shipping, where his contributions were instrumental in shaping the industry.

In 2018, Steve embarked on a new chapter in his career by relocating to Europe, where he continued to contribute to the industry's growth and development. Although he was formerly associated with Norden and held the position of Non-Executive Director at Braemar Shipping Services, his recent appointment as CEO of Lila Global signifies a new phase in his professional journey.

MD & CEO
Essar Ports Ltd

Mr. Rajiv Agarwal is the Operating Partner – Infrastructure, Essar and Managing Director of Essar Ports Ltd. Essar Ports is one of the largest private sector port & terminal developer and operator in India. Mr. Agarwal is a Chartered Accountant with over 35 years of experience and has held various leadership positions in industries like Ports, Shipping, Telecom, Retail and Business Processing Outsourcing (BPO).

Under him the Ports Business of Essar has grown manifold increasing Port Capacity in India alone from 46 MMTPA in FY10 to 110 MMTPA presently and expanding.  Under his astute leadership the company also saw successful divestment worth more than USD 2 Billion.

He is recipient of Port Personality of the Year 2019 at International Bulk Journal Awards, Maritime Personality of the Year’ 17 at Gujarat Star Awards and Port Personality of the Year’ 17 at Maritime & Logistics Awards.  He has also been conferred with Maritime Standard Excellence Award’ 16 in Dubai for his contributions to maritime Sector.  In the past he has also won the CEO of the Year Award in 2009 at Asia Retail Congress and was among the finalists for Asia Business Leadership Awards, 2015 by CNBC.

Managing Director
DNV Maritime Advisory

Morten Lerø is the Managing Director of DNV Maritime Advisory. He is working with clients globally on technical challenges, supporting on decisions related to safety and risk, and is providing strategic advice towards a safe and sustainable transition through decarbonisation and technology developments.

He has 25 years of technical and leadership experience from the maritime industry. Technical education from Norwegian University of Science and Technology and Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Executive leadership training and education at BI Norwegian Business School, INSEAD and Berkley Haas.

Middle East Regional Commercial & Business Development Director
Bureau Veritas

Mr. Jamil Al Ali graduated in 1990 as a Marine Engineer from South Tyneside College, UK after completing his engineering cadetship sponsored by Kuwait Oil Tanker Company (KOTC).  He sailed onboard all classes of vessels within KOTC fleet, serving onboard products tankers, VLCC’s and Gas carriers  during his tenure at sea, sailing up to the rank of Chief Engineer before joining KOTC Head office as technical Superintendent in 2002.

He has held various managerial positions in KOTC Head Office spanning from fleet engineering group manager to managing the Fleet new building group and has developed a vast experience in the tanker and gas carriers segments throughout his vast career.

He was often recognized for his key role in ensuring the KOTC fleet was maintained to the highest industry standards and has often received prestigious industry awards such as Tanker Operator of the year etc.

He has headed the Kuwait delegation at IMO MEPC meeting in London and representing Kuwait at COP 23 – Shipping Initiative in Bonn, Germany.

After a very successful 30 years career at KOTC, Jamil Al Ali is appointed as Head of Regional Commercial & Business Development for the Middle East Region within the Marine and Offshore Division of Bureau Veritas.

Managing Director
Lenol DMCC

A senior Executive with over 25 years of experience in the industry, June Manoharan is presently the Managing Director of LENOL DMCC since July 2022.

Prior to joining LENOL, she worked in the same capacity at LUKOIL, once of the largest Marine Lubricant suppliers in the world.

She excelled at her role in BP Marine, where she started her career, and by 2010 she was at the top of her game, thoroughly enjoying her role, challenging stereotypes with every passing day and rising to the role of  Regional Sales Manager overseeing the Middle East, Africa, India, Sub-continent and South-Asia.

June is the icon women have been looking for. A self-made success, she has broken the barriers and proven sceptics wrong through her sheer determination and inclination for facing a challenge headfirst.

June is undoubtedly a woman of Caliber with a daring spirit, choosing to reach her goals and make it to the position she has always dreamed of. She is an idol for women and men alike who dare to dream, and follow their dreams in the pursuit of making it their realities.

 June won the women in Shipping award in October 2017

Regional Director, Middle East
Blue Ocean Maritime Management

Kateryna Yakunchenkova - General Manager of Al Safina Security, a Maritime Security Company with its presence in Greece, Singapore and UAE providing the below services as:

* Maritime Security

* Exclusive Yacht Security Services

* Cyber Security

* Oil&Gas Security

* Land Security

A co-partner and co-shareholder of a Trading Group of Companies that is involved into refined oil products trading worldwide with its premises in Hong Kong and Latvia.

An active member of WISTA and MIEVOM Group under UKMTO patronage. An author of multiple articles dedicated to the counter-piracy measures at High Risk Waters and Global Security Issues of the 21st century. Cyber effect on currently automated vessels and oil rigs systems.

2012 - Operations Executive at Al Mina Group of Companies.

2010 – 2011 – Operational and Project Manager in Mestex Shipping.

2009 – up to now – Activist and Co-founder of the Ukrainians Seamen’s Relief Fund

Co-founder of the Seamen’s relief Fund in Ukraine. Close work with Mass Media and drawing attention of the authorities to the problem of the seafarers rights at the sea. The Fund was founded after the successful release of the Ukrainian seafarers from the piracy captivity on the vessel "Ariana". The initiative was supported by the ex-Ukrainian prime-minister Sergei Tigipko.

Education:

2008 – 2009 – Practice in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine.

Consul Assistant in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs

2004- 2009 – Magister of Political Sciences. Faculty of International Relations/ Social Sciences Institute; Odessa National University

2008 – School of Young Politician, Ukraine, Kyiv

2006 – Attendance of the International Conferences in Germany, Hamburg/ Greece, Athens / Poland, Warsaw dedicated to the Coalition Politics and Policy; Domestic Effects of Immigration; Transitions to Democracy; Combating Piracy in the HRA( 2011, 2012);

2005 – Summer Studying in the University of Crete, Iraklion. Section of Political Sciences and Social Studies

1993 – 2004 – Gymnasium 5

Managing Director
Alfa Laval OceanGlide Air Lubrication

Rajiv Sarin is the Head of Alfa Laval OceanGlide, a unique air lubrication system that minimizes friction between the hull and the water by producing an even air layer across the flat bottom of the vessel. An air lubrication system saving fuel and, in turn, reducing CO2 emissions. With his vast experience, impressive network and in-depth knowledge of the marine industry, Rajiv is an important driver for this new technology and Alfa Laval’s step towards sustainable shipping. Rajiv has been in the marine industry for over 26 years, starting as a marine engineer and in the last 19 years holding various senior leadership roles and most recently serving as Vice President for Alfa Laval South East Asia, before relocating to the Netherlands to take on this global role. Rajiv has an in-depth knowledge of Alfa Laval’s product portfolio including Alfa Laval Marine Service.

Partner
HFW

Ian has acted for clients in the Gulf for over 15 years.

He has acted for many of the main shipping and offshore companies, terminal operators, producers and traders (both in the Gulf and outside of it) on mergers and acquisitions, financing and their respective projects.

He also advises on a wide range of maritime and offshore regulatory issues from competition issues, the impact of IMO2020, insolvency and trade compliance.

Head of Commercial
Al Seer Marine

Nitin Mathur is a seasoned professional in the maritime industry, currently serving as the Head of Commercial Maritime at Al Seer Marine. With a career spanning three decades, Nitin is known for his expertise and leadership in driving strategic initiatives and business growth.

Previously, Nitin held the position of Managing Director at Wallem Group Singapore, where he played a pivotal role in the success of the organization. His responsibilities extended to the leadership of Wallem Commercial Services, Advisory, and Investment Solutions, highlighting his proficiency in managing various aspects of the maritime industry.

Nitin's professional journey encompasses a wide range of roles, including commercial management, dry and wet chartering, sale and purchase of vessels, and spearheading maritime projects. Notably, he has also been instrumental in assisting financial institutions in navigating distressed asset projects, demonstrating his versatility in the field.

Nitin holds an MBA specializing in Maritime Business and Logistics Management. He is a Master Mariner and was a Class A Harbour Pilot in Singapore.

Nitin's commitment to the maritime community is evident through his active involvement in industry organizations. He was elected to the Singapore Shipping Association (SSA) Council in 2019, where he chaired the SSA Services Committee until 2022. Notably, he served as the Chairman of the Singapore Shipping Tripartite Alliance Resilience Fund Taskforce (SFTF) for crew change during Covid 19 pandemic, underscoring his commitment to fostering positive change within the industry and support seafarers especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Nitin was also part of Singapore MPA Pilotage Committee.

Furthermore, Nitin is a dedicated member of The Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers (ICS) and held a significant role on the ICSHK executive committee.

Head of Sales and Purchasing
Montfort Investments Ltd (DIFC)

Chris Peters has over 33+years shipping experience, 19-years as a shipping banker with Nordea and GE. Prior to joining Montfort Dubai in April 2023, Chris was at Emirates Ship Investment Company (Eships) LLC for 14-years, where he was the CEO since 2017 and previously CFO. Chris has a BSc in Financial Economics from Birkbeck College, University of London and an MBA majoring in Strategy and Finance from City University, London

Head of Business Development
Wärtsilä

Stam Achillas is the Head of Business Development & Sales, 2-Stroke Fuel Conversions at Wärtsilä Services Switzerland, where he is spearheading the commercialisation and business growth of 2-stroke decarbonisation solutions globally.

Growing up in a seafaring family, Stam started his career on board vessels as a marine engineer officer. Following further education in Mechanical & Marine Engineering, he entered the field of diesel engine development with Cummins and later led production and service departments in the defence industry with Kraus-Maffei Wegmann. As a senior project manager with WinGD (formerly Wärtsilä Switzerland) and subsequently with AVL in Austria he led the development and productization of 2-stroke and 4-stroke diesel and dual fuel engines for marine and power generation applications.

Before re-joining Wärtsilä, Stam transitioned into more commercial roles with ABB Turbo Systems (currently Accelleron), heading the global product management function for the 2-stroke turbocharging solutions portfolio.

Global Director of Special Projects and Services
DNV

Ali Shehab is the DNV Global Director of Special Projects and Services where his role to streamline the regional and global ongoing projects and services, as well as development of market share and strengthen the position of DNV in the Maritime and Oil & Gas Industries. Before assuming this position in July 2021, he was the former Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Kuwait Oil Tanker Company (KOTC), the Maritime Transportation arm of Kuwait Petroleum Corporation (KPC), after having serving there for almost 36 years in various positions of the Company, including 7+ years as Deputy Chief Executive Officer Fleet Operations where he oversaw KOTC’s Oil Tanker Fleet Operations, Marine Agency, and the main Gas Filling Branches that supply domestic and industrial LPG to the whole of State of Kuwait.

He is a marine engineer professional educated in the South Tyneside College north of England in the United Kingdom, trained and worked on KOTC vessels as a seagoing Marine Chief Engineer from 1985 to 2001, after which he operated fleet vessels in the capacity of Technical Superintendent and further developed in his carrier to General Superintendent and later assumed various managerial positions for Fleet New-building Group, as well as, Fleet Personal Group of the Fleet Operations Directorate, including 3 years as Site Manager at Hyundai Heavy Industries Ulsan Korea in 2005 to 2007, overseeing the construction of the fleet new tankers. His mid-level management development was from 2005 to 2013 during which he was involved and managing the company crucial tanker fleet development for 26 tankers of different types and sizes, built to the latest industry requirements, digitally ready and designed eco-friendly.

In July 2013 he was placed in the higher management position in the capacity of Deputy Chief Operating Officer for Fleet Operations and then in addition to this role, he assumed the position of Acting Chief Operating Officer in June 2018 till he reached by his retirement time with KOTC in Feb 2021 completing almost 36 years of service. During his senior position role with KOTC, he focused on the development of KOTC position in the Maritime and Oil & Gas Industries, and primarily for KOTC to continue being a leader in the safe transportation of hydrocarbons by sea, in addition, he focused on the development of KOTC employees both on ships and onshore.

He is an active individual who has been involved in various executive roles and positions primarily in the maritime industry, nonetheless, he also actively involved in the oil and gas industry where he assists individuals and organizations to excel in their business and provide them with opportunities of collaboration and growth.

Vice President Middle East/Regional Director
International Registries (UK) Limited – Dubai Branch

Captain Amarjit Singh Kauchhur joined IRI/The Marshall Islands Registry in February 2009 as Regional Manager and opened the Dubai office in April 2009. In 2010, he was promoted to Vice President (Middle East) and Regional Manager. Captain Kauchhur assumed the title of Vice President (Middle East) and Regional Director in 2023. The former Manager of Quality Assurance for International Tanker Management Ltd. Dubai, Captain Kauchhur spent more than 23 years at sea, sailing on tankers, bulkers, container and general cargo ships for The Shipping Corporation of India and Barber Ship Management. He was promoted to Master in 1990 while sailing VLCCs. He joined the shore office with International Tanker Management in 1998 as Safety Superintendent till February 2009. A native of New Delhi, India, Captain Kauchhur was educated at India’s Air Force Central School and attended college in Jalandhar, Punjab, before choosing a career at sea in 1975. Captain Kauchhur is fluent in English, Hindi and Punjabi.

President & CEO
DIABOS Global

With over 15 years of  leadership experience  in the shipping and logistics sectors, Meera is currently the President and Chief Executive of the JM Baxi group company, Diabos,  a position she assumed in September 2020.  Based in Dubai, Diabos is a global provider of niche services for port cost optimisation for vessel owners and operators.  Previous roles for Meera have included being Chief Marketing Officer for another JM Baxi company, Portall; General Manager, Global Business Development for Interchange Systems; and General Manager, Shipping and Logistics at Aspinwall.

COO
TankSkills

With more than 25 years of experience, Frederik Haentjens is an expert in disruptive innovation, organizational design, workforce planning, people analytics, and digital transformation. As the COO of TankSkills, Frederik leads the company's educational services, positioning them as a beacon of specialized training and consultancy in the oil, gas, marine, and tank terminal industries.

Under Frederik's leadership, and based out of Bahrain with a significant presence in the UAE, TankSkills has earned a reputation for its bespoke HR solutions, streamlined staffing strategies, and adept recruitment.

Guided by Frederik's profound industry knowledge and unwavering dedication to client success, TankSkills challenges conventional educational methods with its technology-driven training approach. In addition to their innovative approach to education, TankSkills also provides consultancy services for terminal recommissioning and commissioning, where the company has played a pivotal role in rejuvenating older terminals and spearheading the launch of new ones.

Managing Director
Myrcator Marine & Cargo Solutions FZE

Cris Partridge is the owner of Myrcator Marine & Cargo Solutions FZE based in the UAE.

Cris has worked across the Arabian Gulf since 2001 and since 2009 has been permanently based in Abu Dhabi. Myrcator MCS specialises in major marine casualty and fatality investigations, expert witness services, project cargo supervision, vessel inspections and S&P services.

Having started his career as a deck trainee, Cris reached the rank of Master. His seagoing experience in both global and region-specific trading includes general cargo and container ships, cape-size bulk carriers, lighthouse tenders, OSV / AHT including DP operations, coastal vessels, capital and aggregate dredgers, passenger and freight Ro-Ro, heavy lift, multi-purpose RTW cargo ships and research vessels. In 2004 he was awarded an MSc in Maritime Operations.

Cris has experience as an in-house Master Mariner / Investigator with an international law firm. Cases there involved subsea ploughing and trenching disputes; speed & consumption claims; cargo damage; allision and collision claims ; groundings and ice navigation.

In early 2009 Cris joined an International Marine & Engineering Consultancy in their Middle East offices. During 12+ years with them he was involved in a number of high-profile major accident investigations / litigations for P&I Clubs and international law firms. Cris has extensive MWS project management experience on large offshore construction projects and was responsible for global MWS coverage on approx. 100 MOU moves per year.

Contributing to industry publications as well as authoring two books on MARPOL Annex VI, he regularly has articles published about ongoing developments and incidents in the marine industry. Cris presents at internationally attended conferences on a number of subjects including seafarer welfare.

Cris has been a continuously accredited OVID inspector since the program was introduced in 2010 and is a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers. A trained PRI assessor he is also a Liveryman of the Honourable Company of Master Mariners and a Freeman of the City of London.

Senior Vice President Business Development
SSY

A senior maritime executive with proven ability to handle, construct and execute structures in challenging environments; Strong management skills, team leader, analytical, strategic planning and proven negotiating skills, combined with discipline to track and manage the important details. 10+ Years as Senior Management Experience, including start ups, new ventures, and mergers and acquisitions.

Honorary Secretary, Institute of Marine Engineering
Science & Technology (IMarEST) UAE Branch

NIKEEL IDNANI (CEng, CMarEng, FIMarEST, MBA) is an accomplished professional in the maritime industry, renowned for his exceptional contributions and dedication to the field of marine engineering. In 2000, during his studies at the Australian Maritime College, where he pursued the prestigious Advance Diploma of Marine Engineering, his outstanding performance led him to be awarded the Royal Australian Navy Prize and the IMarEST prize for the best overall performance among his fellow graduates. These recognitions and his 10-years of service as a ship’s engineer, ignited a deep motivation within him to create a positive impact in the maritime world.

In 2012, Nikeel eagerly took on the role of Honorary Secretary for the IMarEST UAE Branch, where he selflessly dedicates his time and expertise to organize and host more than 90 conferences. Through these events, he ensures that the regional maritime community is constantly updated on technical developments.

His transformative leadership and unwavering efforts in revitalizing the previously inactive UAE branch earned him global recognition. Nikeel was appointed as the worldwide IMarEST Marine Ambassador, an esteemed position that allowed him to elevate the institute's visibility within the esteemed maritime circles of the Middle East.

In 2022, Nikeel's passion for marine engineering and his innovative approach to guiding the IMarEST UAE branch earned him the prestigious IMarEST Global Outstanding Contribution to Marine Education Award, solidifying his reputation as an influential figure in the industry.

Currently, Nikeel serves as an Account Manager for PPG Marine UAE, where he continues to demonstrate his expertise and drive in promoting sustainable ship operations. His remarkable journey is a testament to his unwavering commitment and relentless pursuit of advancing the field of marine engineering.