Zodiac Maritime, the UK headquartered operator of one of the world’s largest and most diverse fleets, has today announced the appointment of Katy Ware to the position of Head of Regulatory Affairs.

This is the latest in a series of strategic appointments that Zodiac Maritime has made to expand its senior talent as its business continues to grow. It follows the appointment of Tanuj Luthra, formerly of A.P. Moller – Maersk, to the position of Chief Operating Officer and part of the executive team in January 2024.

2024 was another year of steady growth for Zodiac Maritime, which continued its fleet expansion with orders for several advanced container vessels, PCTCs and tankers, many of which are backed by long-term contracts.

Katy joins Zodiac Maritime following a distinguished career in the maritime sector, including her most recent role as the UK Government’s Director of UK Maritime Services with the Maritime & Coastguard Agency (MCA) from 2016 to 2024. In this role, she led transformation initiatives that strengthened regulatory frameworks, enhanced crew welfare and mental health, and advanced sustainability practices across the industry.

Katy also served for 13 years as the Permanent Representative of the UK to the International Maritime Organization (IMO), where she led negotiations for the UK with the IMO, the European Union, and UK governmental departments on key maritime matters. During her tenure with the Maritime & Coastguard Agency, Katy undertook a secondment with the Department for Transport, where she focused on environmental policies.

In recognition of her contributions to the maritime industry, Katy was made a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in the 2025 New Years Honours List for services to maritime safety and technology.

Daniel Ofer, CEO of Zodiac Maritime, said:

“Katy has been one of the most knowledgeable and influential figures in shipping over the last decade and we are delighted to welcome her to the team. As a multinational company operating across the globe, her extensive experience and insights will be invaluable to Zodiac Maritime. Katy’s track record in driving regulatory excellence and advancing crew welfare aligns with our commitment to prioritising safety and introducing smart operational innovations that make a difference to our customers and crew”.

Katy Ware, Head of Regulatory Affairs, Zodiac Maritime, said:

“Zodiac Maritime is widely recognised for its operational excellence. Its commitment to operating honestly, safely and efficiently is something I have long admired. I am excited to bring my expertise to the team and contribute to the company’s ongoing success”.

Katy holds an Honours degree in Marine Technology from the University of Newcastle upon Tyne and trained with LR as a ship surveyor before joining the MCA in 1999.