Splash247: UK Chamber of Shipping names Shell executive as new president

The UK Chamber of Shipping has appointed Shell executive Karrie Trauth as its new president.

Trauth, executive vice president of shipping and maritime at Shell, was elected at the organisation’s annual general meeting this week. Donnacha O’Driscoll, executive vice president for maritime and sustainability at Carnival UK, was confirmed as vice president.

She takes over from JB Rae Smith, who steps down after a two-year term that saw the Chamber navigate a period marked by market volatility and renewed focus on strategy.

In her first remarks, Trauth pointed to the need to strengthen the UK’s position as a global shipping hub.

“It is an honour—and genuinely humbling—to be elected president of the UK Chamber of Shipping. Our sector is vital to the UK’s prosperity and global stability,” she said.

“At a time of evolving challenges, we must ensure the UK remains one of the most competitive and attractive maritime nations in the world.”

Trauth brings more than three decades of experience across shipping, energy and maritime operations. She took up her current role at Shell in 2025, having previously held senior leadership positions within the company.

Her background spans ship design, shipbuilding, digitalisation and decarbonisation, as well as maritime safety. She began her career as a surface warfare officer in the US Navy.

Trauth also highlighted the need to broaden access to careers in shipping, noting she is only the second woman to hold the role in the Chamber’s nearly 150-year history.

“I want to widen the pipeline—for women and for men—and inspire young people who may not yet see themselves represented in our industry,” she said.

UK Chamber of Shipping CEO Rhett Hatcher said Trauth’s appointment comes at a time of rapid change for the sector.

“Karrie brings enormous experience, strategic clarity, and global perspective to the presidency at a time of geopolitical volatility, economic transition and rapid technological change,” he said.

Outgoing president Smith said the leadership change comes at a key moment for the industry, with competitiveness, collaboration and skills expected to remain high on the agenda.