Press Release: The Rev’d Mark Nestlehutt Appointed Chair of the International Christian Maritime Association (ICMA) for 2024-2026
[Geneva], [6 September 2024] – The Rev’d Mark Nestlehutt, President and Executive Director of The Seamen’s Church Institute, has been appointed as the new Chair of the International Christian Maritime Association (ICMA) for 2024-2026. He assumed the role at the ICMA Annual General Meeting in Geneva, where maritime ministries from around the world gathered to focus on serving seafarers, fishers, and their families.
“It is an honor and a privilege to serve as the Chair of ICMA,” said Rev’d Nestlehutt. “As we navigate a rapidly changing maritime landscape, I am committed to fostering collaboration across our 26 member organizations to meet the evolving needs of seafarers worldwide.”
Rev’d Nestlehutt brings valuable experience in maritime ministry, as President ant CEO of The Seamen’s Church Institute, a long-standing ICMA member providing practical, pastoral, and legal support to mariners.
At the Geneva meeting, Rev’d Nestlehutt shared key highlights of ICMA’s recent activities that align with his continued vision for the organization. ICMA made significant progress over the past year, including the completion of a risk register, updates to the Code of Conduct and Constitution, and the extension of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the North American Maritime Ministry Association (NAMMA). Training courses in Hamburg and Singapore enhanced member skills, while regional meetings across North America, Europe, Africa, and Australia/Oceania strengthened local collaboration. ICMA looks forward to welcoming members to the World Conference in Barcelona in October 2025.
ICMA General Secretary Jason Zuidema welcomed Rev’d Nestlehutt’s appointment, saying, “Mark’s leadership comes at a crucial time, with issues such as ESG, mental health, and geopolitical challenges affecting the maritime industry. I’m excited to work with him and the new leadership team to continue supporting seafarers globally.”
Rev’d Nestlehutt succeeds Sara Baade, CEO of Sailors’ Society, as Chairperson and will work alongside new Vice Chairperson, Dcn. Paul Rosenblum (NAMMA), and Treasurer, Pastor Matthias Ristau (Deutsche Seemannsmission).
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For media inquiries, please contact:
Dr. Jason Zuidema
gensec@icma.as
About ICMA:
The International Christian Maritime Association (ICMA) is a global network representing 26 seafarers’ welfare charities operating in over 700 ports and online. ICMA is dedicated to supporting seafarers, fishers and their families and ensuring their well-being and safety in an ever-changing maritime environment.
https://icma.as/