Patrick Verhoeven to Leave ECSA for IAPH

This is a new leadership function that was created following a fundamental reform of the organization, which is meant to increase its international relevance and visibility as well as strengthen its membership base.

Announcing the decision, ECSA President Niels Smedegaard said, “Patrick has regretfully decided to leave his position with us after four years, to take up a new role in a global environment. I would like to thank him for his modernisation of the ECSA secretariat, commitment and contributions to the many important topics which the European Shipowners Community has faced during his tenure. I wish Patrick lots of success and all the best in his new role.”

Patrick Verhoeven said in connection with this announcement, “The decision to make this move was not an easy one. I have been working in an EU context for almost 25 years, representing stevedores, ship agents, port authorities and – during the last four years – shipping companies."

Patrick added: "However, I feel I cannot miss the unique opportunity to complement this experience with the global challenge that IAPH offers. I warmly thank Niels and the members of the Presidency, all members and not least the team at the ECSA secretariat for the great cooperation and support over the past years.”

Patrick Verhoeven will continue in his current role until the end of August. The search process for a new Secretary General has started and an Executive Search company is being selected to manage the recruitment process.