ICS Career Week 2026 Successfully Connects Talent with the Shipping Industry

The Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers Greek Branch has successfully organised the ICS Career Week 2026, held from 30 March to 3 April 2026, reaffirming its commitment to supporting the professional development and career progression of maritime professionals.

The initiative, designed exclusively for participants of the ICS Professional Maritime Programme, brought together industry experts, HR professionals, and leading shipping companies, creating a dynamic platform for meaningful engagement between talent and the shipping industry.

Throughout the week, participants had the opportunity to gain valuable, real-world insights into the maritime sector, understand employer expectations, strengthen their personal brand, and explore career opportunities within a highly competitive global industry.

A Week of Career Development & Industry Exposure

The programme featured a series of targeted and interactive sessions, including:

• Guest Lecture:“Building a Career that Fits: Skills, Choices & Opportunities in Shipping” by Panos Sotiropoulos, PhD, C-Suite HR Executive, Founder of the Work Intelligence Institute, and author of Right Job, Right Life, offering practical guidance on career direction and employability.
• Workshop:
  A hands-on Career Jumpstart session led by Georgina Spentzou, Psychologist & Career Coach, and Lead Trainer of CMI programme, focusing on interview preparation, personal branding, and real-life interview simulations.
• Career Day:One-to-one meetings with leading shipping companies.
• Company Visit: A visit to Trafigura’s Athens office, providing participants with insights into the operations of a global commodities trading company and exposure to diverse career paths within the industry.
• 1:1 Career Coaching Sessions: Personalised coaching sessions offering tailored guidance on career planning, interview preparation, and professional development.

Bridging Education with Industry

ICS Career Week forms part of the broader mission of the Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers to bridge the gap between education and industry by offering practical exposure, networking opportunities, and direct access to employers.

By bringing together key stakeholders of the maritime sector, the initiative enables participants not only to enhance their skills but also to build meaningful professional connections and gain a clearer understanding of their future career path.

Looking Ahead

The strong participation and engagement observed throughout the week highlights the growing need for structured career support within the shipping industry. ICS and HMC remain committed to delivering initiatives that empower the next generation of maritime professionals and strengthen the connection between talent and industry.