153 votes. That is the historic, record-breaking total that secured Greece’s 4th place in the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council Category A election.

This overwhelming mandate is more than just a diplomatic victory; it is the global community’s unequivocal recognition of the Hellenic fleet’s indispensable role in world trade. It permanently secures Greece's position as a core architect of global shipping policy for the 2024-2025 biennium.

But what does this achievement mean for the individual company operating within the world's leading ship-owning nation? The answer is simple: The world is watching, and the standards for communication have been raised.

The Weight of Global Leadership

Category A membership places Greece among the 10 states with the “largest interest in providing international shipping services.” In practical terms, this means Greece will be central to shaping the most critical debates facing the industry—from the 2023 IMO GHG Strategy and decarbonization targets to the future of maritime safety and security standards.

The Greek shipping ecosystem now holds unprecedented political capital. For the first time, its influence directly reflects its commercial power, which controls approximately 20% of the global fleet.

However, political influence requires a consistent, professional, and world-class narrative to maximize its impact. This is where the enduring challenge for many successful maritime firms appears.

The Strategic Communication Gap is Now a Commercial Risk

For years, many of the most successful companies in Greek shipping have relied on operational excellence and personal relationships, allowing their communication and branding to remain secondary. While effective in a traditional marketplace, this strategy falters on the global stage.

As Greece steps into its most influential role yet at the IMO, every entity connected to the Hellenic maritime cluster—shipowners, suppliers, technology providers, and consultants—is subject to greater scrutiny.

The critical gap is this: National influence does not automatically translate into brand influence.

• Attracting Talent: A world-leading fleet needs world-class talent. Inconsistent or outdated branding fails to engage the next generation of engineers, digital experts, and officers.

• Stakeholder Trust: When discussing complex issues like decarbonization and safety, a professional, credible corporate communication strategy is essential to influence policy, secure financing, and manage reputation.

• Market Opportunity: If Greece is setting the agenda, its companies should be the first to capture the opportunities. But invisible companies cannot win new market share.

Operating a globally significant fleet with regionally focused communication is no longer a viable option—it is a commercial risk that undervalues the core business.

Kapetan: Translating Excellence into Influence

At Kapetan, we specialize in closing this gap. We are the first and only marketing agency in Greece dedicated exclusively to the maritime sector, and we understand that your story is not just a marketing challenge—it’s a matter of strategic positioning.

We speak the language of the sea—from OPEX and vetting to ballast water management and decarbonization policy. Our expertise is built to ensure your corporate narrative is as robust, transparent, and authoritative as the global fleet you manage.

We help you leverage this moment of national triumph to elevate your individual brand through:

• Strategic Brand Identity: Developing a clear, powerful narrative that aligns your company with the future of shipping.

• Consistent Digital Leadership: Creating online platforms and content that position you as a thought leader on the critical IMO-driven issues.

• Stakeholder-Approved Messaging: Ensuring your communications resonate credibly with investors, regulators, clients, and partners worldwide.

Greece has secured its political voice; now, it is time for every leading Greek maritime company to secure its brand voice.

The IMO victory has given the world a clear message about the caliber of Greek shipping. Ensure your company’s communication echoes that same message.