The World Shipping Council (WSC) Board of Directors has announced the election of Soren Toft, CEO of MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company, as the new Chair, and Randy Chen, Vice Chairman of Wan Hai Lines, as the Vice Chair. Their two-year terms commence immediately, succeeding the leadership of Rolf Habben Jansen, CEO of Hapag-Lloyd AG, and Jeremy Nixon, CEO of ONE, who have served as co-Chairs since November 2020.
Leadership Transition for a Dynamic Industry
Soren Toft and Randy Chen bring extensive experience to their new roles, with both leaders recognized for their contributions to innovation and sustainability in global shipping. The transition comes at a pivotal time as the industry navigates evolving challenges and opportunities, including decarbonization and enhancing operational efficiency.
WSC President and CEO Joe Kramek welcomed the new Chair and Vice Chair, emphasizing their leadership and expertise in shaping the future of the industry “I am looking forward to working with Soren and Randy in their new roles. Both are esteemed leaders with a proven track record of driving innovation and sustainability in the global shipping industry. Their experience and expertise will be instrumental in continuing to develop the World Shipping Council as the united voice of liner shipping.”
Joe Kramek also expressed his gratitude to Rolf Habben Jansen, CEO of Hapag-Lloyd AG, and Jeremy Nixon, CEO of ONE, for their exceptional tenure “I extend my sincere gratitude to Rolf and Jeremy for their exceptional leadership over the past four years, during a critical time for the industry and WSC. Their commitment has been instrumental in the Council’s growth and development, strengthening its representation internationally and extending its scope of work.”
A Vision for Sustainable Shipping
Reflecting on his new role as chair of WSC, Soren Toft, CEO of MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company, highlighted the evolving landscape of global shipping “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. WSC is today a respected voice of liner shipping, engaging with governments and organisations globally.”
Soren added “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.”
Profiles of the WSC’s New Leadership
Soren Toft, Chief Executive Officer, MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company
Soren Toft has been the CEO of MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company since December 2020, overseeing the company’s global operations, including cargo shipping, logistics, air cargo, and port operations. He brings a wealth of experience, having previously served as COO and an Executive Board Member at Maersk. Toft holds an Executive MBA from IMD in Lausanne, Switzerland, and has led several major industry initiatives during his professional career.
Randy Chen, Vice Chairman, Wan Hai Lines
Randy Chen is responsible for international business development at Wan Hai Lines, including joint ventures, long-term investments, and port relations. A veteran leader, he has represented Wan Hai at industry forums such as the Asian Shipowners’ Forum and has served on its Board of Directors since 2002. Chen holds an MBA from MIT’s Sloan School of Business and a Bachelor’s Degree in Economics and English Literature from Duke University.
About the World Shipping Council
The World Shipping Council serves as the unified voice of the liner shipping industry, representing its members in addressing critical issues such as environmental sustainability, maritime safety, and trade facilitation. With this leadership transition, WSC continues its mission to shape a resilient and sustainable future for global shipping.
Source World Shipping Council