Christopher J. Wiernicki, chairman and CEO of the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS), Houston, has announced that he will retire at the end of 2025, concluding a 14-year tenure leading the global classification society.
The announcement was made during the 163rd ABS Annual Members Meeting held Wednesday in New York.
Effective Jan. 1, 2026, leadership of ABS is set to transition to John McDonald, the current president and chief operating officer, who is expected to be elected by the board of directors to serve as chairman and CEO.
“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," said Wiernicki. "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.”
Wiernicki possesses more than 35 years of global experience in marine and offshore design, safety management, digitalization, and clean energy transition. He has held senior roles at ABS, chaired the International Association of Classification Societies, and served as CEO of Designers & Planners, Inc.
Recognized as a thought leader in sustainability, digital innovation, and maritime safety, Wiernicki has received numerous industry honors and induction into the International Maritime Hall of Fame, and his expertise has earned him several high-profile advisory positions. He holds advanced degrees from MIT, George Washington University, and Vanderbilt, with multiple honorary doctorates acknowledging his impact on the industry.
As president and COO, McDonald oversees ABS' global day-to-day operations. He has held numerous senior leadership roles across the organization, including in global business development, survey operations, and regional management in Asia, Europe, and the Americas. McDonald holds a bachelor's degree in marine engineering from Maine Maritime Academy and an MBA from Texas A&M University.
