About our governance
DBCE is governed by its Articles of Association and The DBCE Rules (“The Rules”). Day to day management is undertaken by the DBCE Secretariat.
Governance
Board of Directors (BoD)
The BoD is comprised of industry representatives. The Chairman and Vice Chairman positions are held by one representative from DBCE’s Shipowners/Ship Manager subscribers, and one representative from DBCE’s Stakeholder Subscribers with the positions of Chairman held on an alternating basis.
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Panagiotis Nikiteas (Maran Dry)
ChairPanagiotis Nikiteas serves as Chair of the Board of Directors of DBCE, providing strategic leadership and guidance to support the organisation’s mission of advancing best practices, innovation, and collaboration across the dry bulk industry. With extensive experience in maritime operations and management, he plays a key role in shaping the Centre’s governance and long-term vision.
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Laure Baratgin (Rio Tinto)
Vice ChairAs Vice Chair of the DBCE Board, Laure Baratgin supports the Centre’s strategic direction and governance. She contributes to advancing key priorities, fostering collaboration, and promoting best practices throughout the dry bulk sector.
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Christopher Saunders (RightShip)
Board MemberChristopher Saunders serves on the DBCE Board, contributing to strategic direction and governance. Representing RightShip, he supports the advancement of industry best practices, collaboration, and continuous improvement across the dry bulk sector.
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Spyros Tarasis (INTERCARGO)
Board MemberSpyros Tarasis is a member of the DBCE Board, providing input into its strategic direction and governance. With extensive experience in dry bulk shipping and industry representation, including leadership roles within INTERCARGO, he supports the advancement of best practices and collaboration across the sector.
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Jakob Larsen (BIMCO)
Board MemberJacob Larsen serves on the Board of DBCE, contributing extensive expertise from BIMCO. He supports the Centre’s strategic objectives through the promotion of industry standards, collaboration, and best practices across the dry bulk sector.
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John Stawpert (ICS)
Board MemberJohn Stawpert is a member of the DBCE Board, representing the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS). He contributes to the Centre’s strategic direction and supports initiatives that promote collaboration and best practice across the dry bulk sector.
Secretariat
The DBCE Secretariat is responsible to the DBCE Board of Directors for the management of DBCE, the administration of DryBMS and compliance with “The Rules”.
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Michael Phoon
Managing DirectorMichael Phoon leads DBCE as Managing Director, overseeing the Centre’s overall strategy, operations, and development. He is responsible for driving its mission forward and strengthening collaboration across the dry bulk industry.
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Irina Aristarhova
Administration / Office ManagerIrina Aristarhova manages the DBCE Secretariat, overseeing day-to-day coordination and administrative support for the Board and its activities. She ensures the smooth operation of the Centre’s functions and facilitates effective communication across stakeholders.