Shan M. Dalton was elected as the new President of the International Union of Marine Insurance (IUMI) at the council meeting held on September 24, 2026, in Rotterdam. Dalton was the only candidate for this position and will officially begin his presidency at the conclusion of the current annual conference. He will serve in this role for four years.
Dalton's Priorities as President
In response to his election, Dalton said: "I am honored and humbled to be elected as the President of this 152-year-old union. Marine insurance is a great field to work in and offers significant job opportunities for newcomers. One of my priorities as president will be to raise awareness of our industry and promote its appeal as a rewarding career choice. Diversity and inclusion, education, artificial intelligence, and sustainability will also be important topics on my agenda."
Appreciation for Friedrich Denifl
Dalton also thanked his predecessor, Friedrich Denifl, for his efforts and dedication over the past four years and wished him success. Denifl has served as the President of IUMI since 2022 and has faced numerous challenges and crises, including sanctions and wars, during this time.
Reflecting on his four years in office, he stated: "It has been an exciting and rewarding journey for me. I have led during times of challenges and insecurities, but I have also been present during periods of optimism and tremendous opportunities, such as the growth of artificial intelligence and digitalization." Denifl also expressed gratitude for working with union members and professional partners and acknowledged the efforts of the secretariat staff who have assisted him during this time.
Dalton previously served as the Vice President of IUMI, and his successor in this role will be Tom Shinya, a senior marine insurance expert at Tokio Marine and Nichido Fire Insurance. Dalton also serves as the Executive Director and Head of Marine Insurance in North America at Munich Re and is the President of the American Institute of Marine Underwriters (AIMU).
Denifl also wished Dalton success in his presidency at the end of his term and assured him that his efforts would have a positive impact on the marine insurance industry.
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