ClassNK’s current Senior Vice President, Hayato Suga, has been appointed as President and CEO as well as Representative Director of the ship classification society. Additionally, current Corporate Officer Fumihiko Higashi has been appointed as Executive Vice President of the organization.
The leadership changes took effect on 21 March.
Former President & CEO Hiroaki Sakashita has been appointed as Chairman of the Board of Directors, while former Chairman of the Board of Directors Koichi Fujiwara has assumed the position of Advisor to the Society.
Speaking on the occasion, newly appointed President & CEO Hayato Suga commented: “The business environment is changing rapidly, with boundaries between industries becoming increasingly blurred due to environmental challenges and digital transformation. In response, our mission is to provide certification and related services in a timely manner to meet these diverse and fast-evolving needs, just like a top sushi chef serves the finest ingredients at the perfect moment. By doing so, we aim to connect industries through trust and contribute to the sound development and sustainable operation of the maritime sector.”