ZIM appoints new President and CEO ahead of proposed Hapag-Lloyd merger

Isreali carrier ZIM Integrated Shipping Services (ZIM) has announced the appointment of Dr. Chen Lichtenstein as its new President and CEO following the resignation on April 15, 2026, of Eli Glickman, the existing President and Chief Executive Officer. 

The appointment of Dr. Lichtenstein will become effective as of July 1, 2026, at which time Dr. Lichtenstein will also become a member of the Board of Directors of the Company. The employment agreement between the Company and Dr. Lichtenstein will be brought to shareholder approval as required by the Israeli Companies Law of 1999.

The change in ZIM leadership occurs ahead of the proposed $4.2bn acquisition of the company by Hapag-Lloyd, formally agreed by both companies but still subject to regulatory approval.

Dr. Lichtenstein has no shipping background but brings with him extensive management, business and financial experience in the global arena, including leading complex international companies, managing growth processes, integration and organizational change, operating in international markets and working with boards of directors, shareholders and global investment bodies.

Yair Seroussi, Chairman of the Board, stated: "Dr. Chen Lichtenstein is a highly experienced top-tier international executive, with a unique combination of extensive managerial experience, financial depth, strategic insight, and the ability to lead complex global organizations. His broad experience in managing international companies, working with global markets, shareholders, and boards of directors, together with his judgment and experience in leading transformation and integration processes, make him the right executive to lead ZIM at this time. We thank Eli Glickman for his significant contribution to the Company and wish Chen great success in his role."