ZIM Appoints Dr. Chen Lichtenstein as New President and CEO

ZIM Announces New Leadership

ZIM Integrated Shipping Services Ltd., a prominent global container liner shipping company, has made a significant leadership change with the appointment of Dr. Chen Lichtenstein as the new President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO). This move will take effect on July 1, 2026, succeeding Eli Glickman, who resigned from his position on April 15, 2026. Dr. Lichtenstein’s appointment is not only pivotal for ZIM but also marks a new chapter in the company’s commitment to maintaining its position in the highly competitive shipping industry.

The Transition

The official statement from ZIM indicates that Dr. Lichtenstein will also join the company’s Board of Directors, further enhancing his influence over key decisions and strategic directions. His employment agreement awaits shareholder approval in accordance with the Israeli Companies Law of 1999, a formal step that underscores the corporate governance standards upheld by ZIM.

Dr. Lichtenstein comes to ZIM with a wealth of experience in management, business, and finance on a global scale. He has a proven track record of steering complex international companies and facilitating organizational change. His previous roles include serving as the Chief Financial Officer at Syngenta Group from 2020 to 2023, where he played an instrumental role in integrating various segments of the company and steering it towards profitability and efficiency.

Background and Expertise

Throughout his career, Dr. Lichtenstein has held various positions that highlight his exceptional leadership skills. Prior to his tenure at Syngenta, he was the President and CEO of ADAMA Ltd., where he spearheaded significant growth and profitability. He also worked as the President and CEO of China National Agrochemical Corporation, managing pivotal operations and strategic initiatives that drove the company's success. Furthermore, his experience includes several years at Goldman Sachs, where he managed large-scale acquisitions and financing transactions, showcasing his financial acumen.

Dr. Lichtenstein holds impressive academic credentials, including joint doctoral degrees from the prestigious Stanford University and a B.Sc. in Physics from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, where he graduated with honors. His diverse skill set not only includes insights into financial management but also a profound understanding of global markets, enabling him to navigate the complexities of international shipping effectively.

Leadership Vision

With a challenging global marketplace ahead, Dr. Lichtenstein expressed gratitude towards ZIM's Board of Directors for their trust in him. He emphasized the importance of upholding company stability while enhancing performance and business capabilities during his leadership. ZIM is poised to navigate a dynamic and competitive landscape under his direction, as he aims to create value not just for shareholders but also for customers and employees alike.

Yair Seroussi, Chairman of the Board, commented on Dr. Lichtenstein’s vast experience and strategic insight, describing him as the right executive for this pivotal time at ZIM. His prior achievements, coupled with a strong vision for the company’s future, align well with ZIM's ongoing dedication to delivering innovative and efficient shipping solutions.

About ZIM

Established in 1945 in Israel, ZIM holds a prominent position in the container liner shipping sector, operating in over 90 countries and catering to more than 30,000 customers across 300 ports globally. The company is committed to leveraging digital strategies and sustainable practices to enhance customer experiences and operational efficiency. ZIM’s unique global-niche strategy aims to capitalize on competitive market advantages through agile fleet management.

As Dr. Lichtenstein steps into this critical leadership role, the entire shipping and logistics community will be watching closely to see how he guides ZIM into its next phase of growth and innovation. With a strong focus on legacy, continuity, and future success, ZIM looks set to navigate the challenges of the modern shipping landscape successfully.