New York, United States | November 11, 2025 – The American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) has announced a significant leadership transition, electing John McDonald as its next Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. The decision, finalized during a Board of Directors meeting on November 11, 2025, marks the conclusion of a multi-year succession strategy.
McDonald, who currently serves as the ABS President and Chief Operating Officer (COO), is set to officially assume his new duties on January 1, 2026. He succeeds Christopher J. Wiernicki, who will retire at the end of the year following a distinguished tenure at the helm of the leading global classification society.
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A Career Rooted in Maritime Excellence
John McDonald’s trajectory within ABS is a classic “frontline-to-boardroom” success story. Having joined the organization in 1996 as a surveyor, McDonald spent nearly three decades climbing the ranks through various international and operational roles:
- Regional Leadership: He previously led the ABS Divisions in both Europe and the Pacific, gaining critical insight into the diverse needs of global shipping hubs.
- Operational Oversight: He served as Senior Vice President of Western Hemisphere Survey Operations.
- Commercial Growth: As Senior Vice President of Global Business Development, he was instrumental in expanding the ABS portfolio during a period of rapid technological change.
- Academic Background: McDonald holds a bachelor’s degree in marine engineering from Maine Maritime Academy and an MBA from Texas A&M University.
Continuity in a Changing Industry
The appointment comes at a pivotal time for the maritime sector, as the industry grapples with the “triple challenge” of decarbonization, digitalization, and evolving safety standards.
In a statement following his election, McDonald emphasized his commitment to the organization’s 160-year-old mission:
“I am honored to lead this remarkable organization. I do so with deep respect for the legacy of technical excellence and steadfast commitment to safety that has guided ABS for more than 160 years. I look forward to advancing our mission and continuing our journey of growth, innovation, and impact into the future.”
What This Means for the Maritime & Tech Sector
Under the outgoing leadership of Christopher Wiernicki, ABS became a vocal proponent of alternative fuels and maritime digitalization. McDonald’s extensive background in Global Business Development suggests that ABS will likely continue its aggressive push into:
- Future Fuel Certification: Developing safety standards for ammonia, hydrogen, and methanol bunkering.
- Green Technology: Supporting the industry’s shift toward Onboard Carbon Capture (OCCS) and energy-saving devices.
- Digital Class Services: Expanding the use of remote surveys and data-driven decision-making.
The planned transition ensures that ABS remains a stable partner for shipowners and fuel suppliers as they navigate the complex regulatory waters of 2026 and beyond.
About the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS)
The American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) is a leading international classification society dedicated to promoting the security of life, property, and the natural environment through the development and verification of standards for the design, construction, and operational maintenance of marine and offshore assets. Founded in 1862 and headquartered in Houston, Texas, ABS supports the global maritime industry with cutting-edge technical services, regulatory compliance guidance, and innovative solutions that drive sustainability, safety, and performance.
With a strong presence in over 70 countries, ABS works closely with shipowners, operators, shipyards, equipment manufacturers, and regulators to deliver practical insights into evolving technologies and environmental standards. As a trusted advisor, ABS plays a pivotal role in enabling the transition to low- and zero-emission shipping through research, classification, and advisory services on alternative fuels, digitalization, and decarbonization pathways.
Source: American Bureau of Shipping