News: Maritime UK welcomes appointment of non-executive MCA chair

A non-executive chair, with over 40 years of commercial experience, has been appointed to the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) for the first time, in a move that will help keep the UK at the forefront of global shipping.

Michael Parker will provide the MCA with vast experience, additional leadership and guidance as they continue to transform the agency.

The Secretary of State for Transport made the appointment, fulfilling one of the key recommendations of the Maritime Growth Study.

Transport Secretary Chris Grayling said:

"I am delighted that Michael Parker has agreed to bring his wealth of experience to the Maritime and Coastguard Agency. International trade is vital to the UK’s economic growth and bringing commercial expertise to the MCA will keep us at the very centre of global shipping, a position of added importance as we look to forge our future outside the EU."

David Dingle, Chairman of Maritime UK said:

"I am delighted that Michael Parker has been appointed as non-executive chairman of the MCA. I have had the pleasure of working with Michael for many years at the UK Chamber of Shipping and most recently on the Maritime Growth Study steering committee. Michael commands great respect for his diplomacy, wisdom and experience, so that in taking firm decisions he brings people with him.  These qualities will be stand him very good stead in garnering support for progress, change and commercial development at the MCA. I wish him every success in this critical role." 

This announcement coincides with the start of the countdown to London International Shipping Week (LISW) 2017 which will bring together global leaders from the maritime industry and showcase the best of the sector in the UK.

Lord Mountevans’ ‘Maritime growth study’ was published during LISW 2015 and this appointment implements one of the key recommendations from the study.

Michael Parker said:

I am very pleased to be taking up the role and look forward to the challenge of ensuring that the MCA continues to provide a high quality service while adapting to the changing needs and commercial requirements of international shipping. The UK is a world leading maritime nation and ensuring that the MCA provides both an effective and responsive service is central to retaining this position.

This appointment is part of a wider commitment to generate growth in the maritime sector, encourage greater investment in the UK and promote theUK flag as a world-class register that attracts quality ship owners.

Michael will formally take up the role in January 2017. He brings over 40 years of experience in the shipping industry to the role, most recently as the chairman of CMA CGM Holdings (UK) Ltd, part of the third largest container operator in the world. Michael is a past President of the UK Chamber of Shipping and past board member of the International Chamber of Shipping. He is a Shipwright and Freeman of the City of London, Chairman of the Ellerman Benevolent Fund and trustee of the Institute of Marine Engineers.

The maritime industry contributes over £22.2bn to GDP and supports over 500,000 jobs.