ABS reports continuing strong performance with Chairman and CEO Chris Wiernicki to retire at year-end

The 163rd ABS Annual Members Meeting highlighted that ABS has never been stronger, with substantial growth and industry-leading safety performance reported.

ABS continued to perform strongly in 2024, with the fleet growing to 300 million gross tons. The company also maintained the number one position among class organisations in global new order share with 22 percent. Across the industry, ABS held leading positions with both shipbuilders and shipowners.

ABS has also maintained its leadership position in the global offshore market and expanded its support for governments while continuing to be in the forefront in digital and sustainability services.

Members also heard ABS Chairman and CEO Christopher J. Wiernicki announcethat he will step down as Chairman and CEO and retire at the end of 2025, after 14 years at the helm of ABS.

After thanking the ABS Board of Directors, the employees and his family for their support, Wiernicki said: “We have faced many challenges during my tenure, including the pandemic, the marine and offshore industry downturn and unprecedented, and disruptive technology and regulatory driven change. In spite of these events, we were able to move forward with a number of strategic investments that have allowed us to become an industry recognized technology and safety leader.”

In the culmination of a well-planned succession process, the leadership of ABS, upon election by the Board of Directors, is expected to pass to the President and Chief Operating Officer John McDonalld, who will become Chairman and CEO from January 1, 2026.