Israeli liner operator ZIM is preparing for a leadership change, with long-serving chief executive Eli Glickman set to step down.
The company said Glickman has informed the board of his decision to leave, but will remain in place for a six-month notice period to support an orderly handover while a successor is identified.
The board is expected to launch a search process in the coming weeks.
Glickman said: “When I joined ZIM nine years ago, I did so after deep deliberation, but with absolute clarity of purpose. I believed in this company, I believed in its people, and I believed that with the right strategy, discipline, and courage, we could transform ZIM into a stronger, more innovative, and more resilient global player. Together, we did exactly that.”
He noted the company had undergone a major turnaround during his tenure, pointing to strong financial performance and a repositioning of ZIM in the global liner market.
“Over these years, ZIM delivered what can only be described as an astounding turnaround, achieving results that, at points, were unprecedented for the company and restoring pride in the ZIM name across the industry. None of this belongs to one person. It belongs to the extraordinary ZIM team, colleagues across the globe who showed professionalism, determination, and heart every single day,” Glickman said.
His departure comes against the backdrop of strategic discussions at board level, including a proposed merger process with German liner Hapag-Lloyd.
Glickman said: “In recent months, the company’s board promoted a merger process with Hapag-Lloyd. I respect the board’s decision, however, after reflection, I concluded that I cannot continue as CEO of ZIM. I have always put my heart and soul into this position. For me, leadership is not a title – it is a commitment, and it must be aligned with the journey ahead.”
He also pointed to the pressures faced by staff during a difficult period marked by regional conflict, highlighting the importance of stability through the transition.
Glickman said: “One of my central aims throughout this period was to help secure the future of ZIM’s dedicated employees. Our employees have also lived through a very challenging period of war, and I have felt a deep responsibility to lead with steadiness and care. With the transition process underway, I believe this is the right moment to move ahead.”
The move marks the end of a near decade-long tenure that saw ZIM navigate a volatile freight market, capitalise on the post-pandemic boom and reposition its fleet and commercial strategy, including a stronger focus on chartered tonnage and niche trades.
Glickman added that he would remain focused on ensuring continuity until a successor is in place. “I will remain fully committed throughout the notice period to ensure continuity, stability, and an orderly transition, and to support the board and the leadership team as they prepare the company for its next chapter.”
