Vol. 114 - No. 100 - May 26, 2010

World Shipping Council Announces Hiring of General Counsel

The World Shipping Council (WSC) has announced that John Butler will join WSC as its General Counsel effective September 1, 2010.

Mr. Butler is currently a partner in the law firm of Sher & Blackwell in Washington, D.C. He has worked for many years in maritime and regulatory matters, and has worked closely with WSC and its Member companies on a wide array of legal and regulatory issues.

"The liner shipping industry is involved with government regulations and the legal system on a very wide range of issues – from environmental stewardship and regulatory compliance, to Customs and security regimes, to competition and shipping regulatory systems, to the laws governing cargo liability claims. John Butler is a talented lawyer, with very practical knowledge and experience from his years working on maritime and regulatory issues in judicial, legislative and executive forums. WSC has greatly valued John and his contributions to our efforts in the past, and we look forward to his joining WSC as a full time member of the staff," said Chris Koch, World Shipping Council President and CEO.

Ron Widdows, Chairman of the World Shipping Council and Group President and CEO of NOL noted: "The addition of John Butler to the WSC staff will further strengthen our capabilities to serve the industry well and to help the liner shipping industry fulfill its objective of developing thoughtful and effective strategies for the future."

"WSC has retained the services of the law firm of Sher & Blackwell since the WSC was founded a decade ago, and has been very pleased with the firm’s excellent service and skilled attorneys. WSC will continue to retain the firm’s services as its outside counsel in Washington going forward," Koch added.