LONDON, November 2026 — Natalia Margioli has become the first woman and the first Greek to lead the London-based Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers as president in its 115-year history.
The Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers (ICS) is the professional body for the commercial shipping industry worldwide. First, it confirmed the handover at its annual Controlling Council meeting in Cape Town, South Africa.
Outgoing president Punit Oza passed the role to Natalia Margioli, who will serve from 2026 to 2028. Before that, she had been the institute’s vice president since 2024.
Who is Natalia Margioli
Margioli brings decades of experience in shipping and maritime education. She has been the founder and managing director of the Hellenic Management Centre since 1999.
Read more: Greek-Owned Tanker Hit by Drone in Persian Gulf Near Strait of Hormuz
She also founded the ICS Greek branch, according to Lloyd’s List. In addition, she holds a BA in Business Administration and an MBA.
At the same meeting, the council also elected Jeffrey Blum as its new vice president. He will serve a two-year term and support Margioli in the role.
What the new president plans
In comments carried by Marine Log, Margioli said the presidency was “a great honour and privilege”. The institute, she said, has been part of her personal and professional journey for more than two decades.
Then she thanked Oza for his leadership over the past two years. In particular, she praised the “strong foundations” he leaves behind.
“Becoming the first woman and the first Greek President in the Institute’s 115-year history is a milestone I am very proud of,” Natalia Margioli said.
Her priorities, she said, are to build on the institute’s excellence in maritime education and to strengthen the value of membership. She also wants to bring its international branches closer together.
Above all, Margioli said she believes in “bringing people together”. Finally, she added that she hopes to work with members and branches around the world to make the institute even stronger.
Her election comes as Greek owners remain central to global shipping, a sector now facing new risks in the Strait of Hormuz.
Source: Mononews
