Sustainable Shipping Initiative names Ian Petty as general manager

(LONDON) — The Sustainable Shipping Initiative (SSI), a pioneering coalition of companies from across the global shipping industry, has announced the appointment of Ian Petty as its first general manager.

The new appointment reflects the SSI’s strengthening in depth and wealth of industry experience, as well as its commitment to providing further resource to delivering its vision of creating a truly sustainable shipping industry by 2040.

Petty will take responsibility for the day-to-day running of the SSI and continuing to drive this agenda forward. He will be working closely with SSI members to deliver against core elements of the road map, and engaging with and building strong coalitions and support for change within the industry.

Following a period of transition, Alastair Fischbacher, the SSI’s current CEO, will be appointed co-chairman of the organization, and will continue to have an oversight responsibility for the SSI. He will work with Petty and Stephanie Draper, SSI chairwoman, to ensure that the SSI maintains and accelerates its leadership of the industry to a sustainable future.

The SSI has made significant strides in the last few years, including the development of a landmark road map, plotting the key milestones for success in delivery of the vision; implemented a structure allowing tangible developments in key SSI work streams on technology and finance; delivered on our shared commitments and showcased leadership; driven progress toward cost-effective, responsible ship recycling, and raised awareness of the attractiveness of maritime careers as well as building the SSI’s reputation as a progressive and authoritative voice providing a long-term industry perspective and charting a path toward a sustainable future for everyone.

“Ian has a wealth of experience in commercial shipping, and will play a key role in driving forward the day-to-day operations of the SSI, championing the implementation of the road map, and working closely with our members to pioneer the social, environmental, and commercial benefits of sustainability," Fischbacher said. "Progress is being made, and it is critical that we continue to inspire the industry to change. This requires more resource from the SSI, as well as commitment from the wider market, including new members, who can work with us to realize our vision of creating a better, more responsible and more profitable shipping industry.”

Petty has nearly 40 years of experience working within the maritime industry. Prior to joining the SSI he was director of group operations and member of the executive management team at P&O Maritime in Australia and Dubai. He was also a project director at James Fisher Fendercare and James Fisher Marine Services as well as being a Class 1 master mariner with seagoing experience in a range of vessels and trades.

“The SSI and its members have shown considerable commitment by investing their knowledge, resource and expertise to pro-actively inspire change within the shipping industry," Petty said. "The case for a sustainable shipping industry is clear, there is much at stake and a considerable amount that needs to be achieved. However, the opportunities are significant, and I look forward to playing my role within the SSI, as well as with our members and supporters in helping the industry seize them.”

By Professional Mariner Staff