New Chairman of ISWAN

Per Gullestrup, the former CEO of the Clipper Group, will take over as Chairman of the International Seafarers' Welfare and Assistance Network on 1 November 2013. ISWAN is an international NGO and charity set up to promote the welfare of seafarers worldwide. Per replaces Hennie La Grange who is stepping down as acting Chairman.

Per Gullestrup said "I am pleased to be taking up this role at a time when the newly merged organisation is beginning its journey to further improve the welfare of seafarers worldwide. I am looking forward to working with the staff, fellow trustees, and members of ISWAN to ensure that seafarers' welfare has a higher profile not just within the industry but also among the general public."

Hennie la Grange said "ISWAN is very fortunate that Per is taking over this key leadership role. Per is widely respected in the shipping industry and I wish him every success as Chairman."

Per is also Chairman of the Somali Fair Fishing initiative and remains a partner in the Clipper Group. Per has been involved in shipping for over 40 years. His role in the handling of a Clipper ship seized by Somali pirates in 2009 has been widely praised throughout the maritime world.

ISWAN was formed earlier this year as the result of the merger between the International Committee on Seafarers' Welfare and the International Seafarers' Assistance Network.

ISWAN runs the 24 hour multilingual helpline for seafarers, SeafarerHelp, and has a range of projects aimed at improving the welfare of seafarers. ISWAN also organises the International Seafarers' Welfare Awards. ISWAN is a membership organisation with the International Shipping Federation, the International Transport Workers' Federation, and the International Christian Maritime Association as key members.