He has served 43 years with the company, the last 20 as either president of chairman of ABS, the longest ever such period of leadership in the organisation's 151 years of existence.
Somerville commented that he had always seen his role as “custodian” of the society’s “proud tradition” as a maritime safety organisation, “ensuring that ABS is technically and financially positioned to continue its role in the decades to come.”
Tonnage under ABS class more than doubled to almost 200m gt during his presidency, staff likewise doubled to over 4,000 worldwide, and the company solidified its position as the leading class society for the rapidly growing offshore energy sector.
A staunch defender of the role of class and a strong advocate of ever higher safety standards for the shipping and offshore industries, Somerville also leaves an abiding legacy from his years of service with the International Association of Classification Societies (IACS), Common Structural Rules for Tankers and Bulk Carriers having been introduced under his chairmanship.
Somerville is due to be replaced as chairman by Christopher J. Wiernicki, current president and ceo, marking the culmination of a gradual two year handover process designed to ensure a seamless transition of leadership.
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