Loïc Van Staey Named New Head of Belgian Shipowners Group

The Royal Belgian Shipowners’ Association (KBRV) has appointed Loïc Van Staey as its new managing director, marking a shift in leadership at the organization that represents nearly all shipowners sailing under the Belgian flag.

Van Staey steps into the role following the departure of Wilfried Lemmens, who served as managing director for over ten years.

Having joined KBRV in November of last year as an advisor on taxation and security, Van Staey brings with him a broad professional background. His experience includes work as a tax consultant at a major global accounting firm, as well as policy advisory positions within the Union of Independent Entrepreneurs and in the offices of multiple Belgian deputy prime ministers.

“I am very honoured to be given the opportunity to lead the team and the work of the KBRV, especially at a time when global shipping is undergoing rapid transformation,” Van Staey said in a statement. He stressed the need for collaboration in the face of the geopolitical issues currently impacting the maritime sector.

Van Staey also underlined KBRV’s role in representing its members’ interests across the International Maritime Organization (IMO), the European Union, and national institutions. “Belgian shipowners are at the forefront of shipping innovation, be it alternative fuels or digitalisation,” he said. “My team and I will work to increase our participation in these fields at relevant international fora, so that we stay in the lead in the race towards the future of shipping.”