John Howie MBE announced as new SMI President

The Society of Maritime Industries is delighted to announce its new President, Mr John Howie MBE.  The role of President is to represent the industry and the Society at the highest levels of Government and to be the voice of the SMI at key events like SMI’s Annual House of Lords dinner and AGM.  John, who is also Chief Corporate Affairs Officer for Babcock International Group, is a widely respected senior industry executive with an extensive network of contacts across both industry and Government and is well placed to provide valuable insight and guidance to the SMI Board and executive team.

 John Howie MBE said:

“It’s a tremendous honour to be the next President of the Society of Maritime Industries. The UK is a nation with a strong maritime tradition and our future trading relationships will be crucially dependent on the maritime sector. I look forward to playing a role in promoting the maritime sector and supporting our member companies”

 Russell Gould, Head of International Business Development at Hensoldt and Chair of SMI said:

“Being next in line after Archie Bethel is a tough act to follow but John is a hugely respected industry figure and has always shown a balanced industry wide view as a member of the SMI Board.  As the President I know he will be representing the depth and breadth of the membership in his work and we look forward to his continued presence at Board meetings.”

 Tom Chant, SMI Chief Executive said:

“John is superbly well placed to be our eyes and ears with government at this key period for the industry post Brexit and as we move into the refresh and hoped for delivery of the National Shipbuilding Strategy.  I’m looking forward to working closely with John in the coming months and years.”