Setting his sights on the UK's Maritime & Coastguard Agency (MCA), Bowman identified the improvements the agnecy could make to the services it offers the country's shipping sector, and the impression it gives of the UK as a place of business.
"The MCA could and should be a facilitator and ambassador for UK shipping... But before it can play that role, it needs to work much more closely with us on delivering its key objectives," Bowman stated in his inaugural speech on Thursday.
"The MCA needs greater transparency to show why it takes the decisions it does. But above all it needs to be more commercially focused... If it cannot do that itself, it must follow the lead of its European counterparts and enlist the support of classification societies."
On the sidelines of the AGM, an attendee retold the story of a member of MCA staff flying business class and staying at a four star hotel to inspect a ship half way around the world, causing delay and expense to the shipowner, as MCA rules prevent outsourcing of inspections to P&I clubs as per the norm.
Bowman stressed the importance of the MCA in promoting the UK flag and UK business, and shared his hopes that the UK Chamber can help it to improve.
South African-born Bowman also warned that the UK's debate on immigration risks reducing its position as a leading maritime power if isolationism influences immigration policy and visas are restricted, effectively closing borders to the world class talent the industry needs to continue and develop.
Ahead of his speech, Bowman offered his thanks to the outgoing president, Kenneth MacLeod, recognising all the chamber had achieved in the year under Macleod's leadership, including a strategic partnership with the government, appointment of chief executive Guy Platten, and expansion of the Chamber's membership.
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