MCA announces new leadership of UK Ship Register

Katy Ware, Director of Maritime
Safety and Standards
Customers of the UK Ship Register (UKSR) are set to benefit from a more collaborative approach and improved customer service from the Maritime & Coastguard Agency (MCA) under the leadership of Director of Maritime Safety and Standards, Katy Ware.

Having joined the MCA in 1999 as a surveyor, Katy has a strong background in maritime safety and standards and has led some impressive transformation projects, as well as working to promote and elevate shipping safety standards both in the UK and internationally.

Katy also leads the teams responsible for the MCA’s technical and surveying expertise. With the two departments being integrated they will be working together towards offering customers a more comprehensive service, with full access to the Agency’s world class in-house surveyors and technical experts. To support Katy in her expanded role the MCA has recruited an interim Business Manager, Mark Seastron, who is focused on developing the UK Flag brand and service proposition. The Directorate of Maritime and Safety Standards has also been bolstered by a refreshed senior leadership team as part of its modernisation.

Customers will also benefit from direct access to the MCA’s contribution to shaping the future of maritime policy and regulation, with Katy sitting as Permanent Representative of the UK to the International Maritime Organization.

She takes over the reins at an exciting time as the UK flag has recently expanded its ownership eligibility, allowing more exceptional shipping companies to flag to the UK and take advantage of its unique all-inclusive service.

She said, “It’s important to me that we now work alongside our customers to understand what they want from the UK Flag to help us develop our offering even further. Collaboration, partnership and trust are key focus as we transition the UK ship register with our policy and technical services.”

Katy already has a close work relationship with many of our current customers and will be at London International Shipping Week this September to discuss working more closely to build a truly world-leading flag service.

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