Captain Kevin Allen, Harbor Master of Belfast Harbor Commissioners, officially assumes the role of President on June 11, 2026, following the Association’s Annual General Meeting, held during the 15th International Harbor Masters Association Congress in Rotterdam.
Outgoing President Captain Paul O’Regan, Harbor Master of Duqm Port, has completed four years in the role: “It has been an honor to represent IHMA globally as President. Now it’s time to pass the baton to a colleague and friend. Kevin takes up the role at a time when our industry faces unprecedented challenges—not least for those of us with responsibility for safety, security and sustainability in our ports. However, I am confident that Kevin is the right person, in the right place at the right time to navigate the association during this dynamic period. He brings energy, vision and enthusiasm to everything he does, and I am confident he will deliver fresh momentum to the role of IHMA President. I look forward to seeing the IHMA continue to evolve as a beacon for port professionals worldwide under Kevin’s guidance.”
Commenting on his appointment, Captain Allen said: “I know it’s a bit of a cliché, but these are hard boots to fill. Paul has a remarkable ability to bring people together and create opportunities even in challenging times. I hope to do both him and this position proud.
“Ports around the world face significant challenges, but there is also a great deal of positive progress and innovation taking place. My goal is to share that knowledge, encourage collaboration across our membership, and help grow the Association for the benefit of Harbor Masters and port professionals everywhere.”
The IHMA unites those responsible for the safe, efficient and secure navigation of port waters with members representing more than 50 nations, extending throughout Western and Eastern Europe, Australasia, Africa, the Americas, the Middle East and Asia. Members are from ports large and small, publicly and privately owned, and represent a unique source of up-to-date, hands-on expertise in a range of port and maritime operations, including safety of navigation, vessel traffic control, shipping movements, port management, protection of the marine environment, the ship/port interface, cargo handling and safe stowage, safety management and training, and port security.
