The North American Marine Environment Protection Association (NAMEPA) announces the election of Jan-Willem van den Dijssel, Americas Lead at Cargill Ocean Transportation, as Chairman of its Board of Directors, and Tina LaRuffa Goldstein, Founder and President of Wasteline Solutions, as Vice Chairman.
Van den Dijssel replaces longtime Chairman Joe Hughes of the American Club, with Goldstein assuming the role of Vice Chairman. The election took place end-October at NAMEPA’s Annual Conference and Meeting in New York City.
NAMEPA says the appointments mark an important leadership transition as the organization continues to strengthen its commitment to marine environmental protection, sustainability, education, workforce development and collaboration across the global maritime industry.
Both Van den Dijssel and LaRuffa Goldstein have been actively involved with NAMEPA's Board of Directors, bringing complementary perspectives from maritime transportation, environmental innovation, and sustainable operational practices. Their appointments reflect the organization's commitment to industry-led environmental stewardship and the continued advancement of its mission to Save Our Seas.
Jan-Willem van den Dijssel (pictured, right) has represented Cargill Ocean Transportation on NAMEPA's Board of Directors since 2018 and previously served as Vice Chairman. His longstanding involvement has provided NAMEPA with valuable insight into the commercial shipping sector and the importance of aligning operational excellence with environmental responsibility.
As Americas Lead for Cargill Ocean Transportation, Van den Dijssel brings extensive experience in global maritime commerce, shipping operations, and industry engagement. His career with Cargill has included senior commercial leadership positions, providing a broad perspective on the opportunities and challenges facing the international shipping community. Cargill Ocean Transportation is a leading global mover of dry and wet bulk cargo, operating an average fleet of about 600 chartered vessels worldwide (2025) and serving customers from 12 offices, with operations dating back to 1956.
Beyond NAMEPA, Van den Dijssel serves on the Board of Trustees of The Seamen's Church Institute, demonstrating his commitment to maritime education, workforce development, and seafarer welfare.
As Chairman, Van den Dijssel will help guide NAMEPA's strategic direction, strengthen engagement with maritime stakeholders, and support the organization's expanding educational and environmental initiatives.
Tina LaRuffa Goldstein (left), Founder and President of Wasteline Solutions, brings an innovative and solutions-oriented perspective to her new role as Vice Chair.
As a member of NAMEPA's Board of Directors, LaRuffa Goldstein has contributed expertise in environmental innovation, waste management, and sustainable maritime practices. Through her leadership at Wasteline Solutions, she has championed approaches to improving waste management and promoting circular economy principles within the maritime industry.
As Vice Chairman, LaRuffa Goldstein will work alongside Van den Dijssel and NAMEPA's Board to support organizational growth, strengthen industry partnerships, and advance programs that encourage measurable environmental progress and industry sustainability.
The appointments also mark the conclusion of Joe Hughes' decade-long tenure as Chairman of NAMEPA. Also Chairman of the Managers of the American Club and a longstanding advocate for maritime environmental protection, he has played an instrumental role in guiding NAMEPA's growth, strengthening its industry relationships, and advancing its educational and environmental mission. His leadership has helped establish a strong foundation for NAMEPA's next chapter, ensuring continuity in the organisation's mission while welcoming new perspectives and opportunities for growth.
In recognition of his contributions, Hughes received NAMEPA's 2026 Lifetime Achievement Award during the organisation's Annual Conference and Marine Environment Protection Awards program on 29 October in New York City.