Moore Greece has been a trusted advisor to the shipping industry for over 60 years. In your view, what are the biggest changes the sector has undergone in that time—and what lies ahead?
Over the past six decades, shipping has moved from an industry driven largely by personal relations and larger-than-life individuals to one shaped by transparency, corporate structures, and data. Financing has diversified, specialisation has grown, and technology has transformed every function, from accounting to fleet operations. Although intuition still plays a role, it has increasingly been complemented by structured decision-making and the use of a vast range of available data. Looking ahead, the pace of change will only accelerate. Artificial intelligence and automation will become essential, partly driven by crew shortages. Decarbonization technologies will demand new types of on-shore expertise, while regulators and financiers increase their scrutiny. The sector will continue corporatising and consolidating, but as long as companies remain operationally efficient, uphold the ethos of “say what you do and do as you say,” and embrace transparency, technology, and innovation, they will thrive.
How has Moore adapted its services to meet the evolving needs of shipping clients, particularly in areas such as ESG reporting, digital transformation, and regulatory compliance?
Adaptability has been part of Moore’s DNA since its beginnings in London, when Harold Moore and John Stephens tailored professional advice to a growing shipping community. When my father founded Moore in Greece in the early 1960s, he carried the same ethos — practical, tailored solutions rooted in deep industry knowledge. Today, this same approach that we apply to our core services, audit, accounting and taxation, we also apply to other services such as ESG reporting, GDPR compliance, digital transformation, and specialized computerized accounting systems. For example, we help clients translate broad ESG frameworks into shipping-specific KPIs, design reporting processes that withstand audit scrutiny, and implement digital accounting tools suited to fleet operations. By bridging the gap between complex, industry-agnostic regulation and the realities of shipping, we ensure clients meet global standards in ways that are efficient, relevant, and cost-effective.
With Moore Global’s shipping expertise spanning multiple jurisdictions, how would you compare the regulatory and business environment of Cyprus to other key maritime hubs?
Cyprus has established itself as one of the most stable and respected maritime hubs globally. Its regulatory framework is transparent, pragmatic, and aligned with international standards, while still being responsive to industry needs. Equally important, Cyprus offers a strong professional services ecosystem, EU membership, political stability, and a collaborative maritime cluster. These factors make it uniquely positioned to continue attracting global shipping companies looking for reliability, efficiency, and foresight.
You’ve often emphasized the importance of data-driven decision-making in shipping. How is Moore leveraging data analytics—like the Moore Maritime Index—to support shipowners and operators?
Shipping decisions today require verified data, not instinct alone. The Moore Maritime Index is a unique tool, built on audited financial statements from over 1,200 shipping companies worldwide. That makes it the most reliable dataset of its kind, grounded in actual performance rather than estimates. By providing transparent benchmarks of operating expenses and income across vessel types, the Index enables shipowners and operators to test strategies, compare costs, and identify trends with confidence. It transforms decision-making from anecdotal to evidence-based — a critical advantage in a volatile market.
ESG and decarbonization remain top priorities for the global maritime industry. How can audit and advisory firms like Moore play a meaningful role in helping clients transition responsibly?
In the consulting world we often say “we are what we measure”. Companies cannot improve their ESG performance without reliable measurement and third parties cannot rely on these metrics without assurance. The accounting profession is uniquely skilled in this: accountants design reporting systems, and auditors test the accuracy of data and processes. At Moore, our deep knowledge of shipping allows us to apply these skills efficiently and with industry context. Just as importantly, our audit teams bring independence and rigor, giving stakeholders confidence that ESG and decarbonization disclosures are reliable. By combining advisory with strong audit credentials, we help clients transition responsibly, with both transparency and credibility.
The maritime workforce is evolving. What initiatives do you think the industry—and firms like yours—should take to attract and retain the next generation of maritime professionals?
The challenge is twofold: sea-going and shore-based staff are becoming scarce, and younger generations value work–life balance and purpose. Shipping, by its nature, is a 24/7 global business, which makes recruitment and retention harder than in many other sectors. The industry must respond with creativity. For shore-based roles, companies should build cultures that emphasize humanity, purpose, and meaningful contribution rather than outdated notions of endurance and “macho hard work.” At the same time, industry initiatives such as partnerships with universities, internships, and mentoring programs are essential to attract talent early. Offering clearer career paths and aligning roles with sustainability goals will also resonate with younger professionals. The next generation will be attracted not only by competitive pay but by environments that respect their time and values.
As a long-time supporter of Maritime Cyprus, how do you view the role of this conference in shaping thought leadership and collaboration across the global shipping community?
Being of Cypriot origin, I am very happy to see Maritime Cyprus has earned its place as one of the world’s leading shipping conferences. Its strength lies in bringing together policymakers, shipowners, financiers, and advisors in one forum where ideas are openly exchanged. The conversations here do not stay theoretical; they influence real decisions across global fleets. Equally, the conference reinforces Cyprus’ position as a maritime hub committed to thought leadership and international collaboration. In an industry that is both highly competitive and deeply interconnected, Maritime Cyprus provides a rare space where stakeholders can work together on the challenges and opportunities that define our future.
What are the most common governance or risk-related blind spots you see among shipping companies today, especially in family-owned or mid-size firms?
Smaller and mid-sized companies are highly competent in operational regulation — they know how to run ships safely and efficiently. Where gaps appear is in the less visible areas: sanctions, anti-money laundering, data protection, and other non-operational risks. Often, it is not a matter of non-compliance but of being unable to demonstrate compliance to regulators or counterparties. As scrutiny increases, companies must strengthen governance and documentation processes so they can prove that their standards meet international expectations. Because many of these requirements are difficult to manage in-house, companies benefit from advisors who combine compliance expertise with deep industry knowledge.
Moore Greece recently celebrated several ESG, CSR, and academic initiatives. What motivates these efforts, and how do they align with the firm’s long-term vision?
Quite simply, we love what we do and the industry we serve. Our ESG, CSR, and academic initiatives stem from a genuine desire to remain current, relevant, and useful to our clients and community. For us, these initiatives are not “add-ons” but part of a long-term vision: to be more than advisors. We aim to be active participants in shaping the future of the maritime sector, helping it evolve responsibly and sustainably.
If you could send one clear message to the international shipping community from Cyprus in 2025, what would it be?
Keep your eyes on the ball. The fundamental role of shipping — safe and reliable global transportation — is not going away. Decarbonization may progress in steps, but it is irreversible. In an era where major global events cause constant distraction, companies must avoid being thrown off course. Plot a steady path toward long-term goals, and you will remain resilient regardless of short-term turbulence.
*MANAGING PARTNER | GLOBAL MARITIMELEADER, MOORE
