International Teams

Mrs. Grace Zou has over a decade of experience in international ship registry under open flags, with in-depth knowledge of international maritime law and conventions. She has been authorized to be Deputy Registrar or representative for several flag administrations. Since 2019, she has become a member of ECM China's team, contributing professional insights to team development, customer acquisition, and relationship management, achieving notable results. In 2023, she formally joined GMS China's team, assuming full responsibility for business communication and management.

Mr. Louis Lyu graduated from Dalian Maritime University with a degree in Maritime Navigation, and has worked for multiple state-owned large-scale shipping companies. Since 2015, he has specialized in the ship agency industry, providing comprehensive ship and cargo agency services to major shipping enterprises. With extensive experience across all segments of the shipping industry chain and strong leadership capabilities, he leverages his expertise to deliver innovative solutions for clients facing complex challenges.

Lily Wang graduated from Dalian University with a Bachelor’s degree in English. After graduation, she joined GMS China in March 2024 as a Technical Assistant, responsible for assisting clients in handling certificate applications for entry into the United States, California, Canada, Alaska, Panama, and other waterways. As a Technical Assistant, Lily demonstrated meticulous attention to detail in certificate processing, effectively identifying and mitigating potential errors to accelerate workflows. Her proactive approach helped shorten overall processing timelines while maintaining strict compliance with regulatory requirements.

Irena Veroni’s wide-ranging expertise in the Maritime Industry spans over twenty-five years.  Specializing in sales, business development and project coordination, she directly interfaces with GMS clients to ensure they continually receive superior service—on time, any time. Irena has vast experience in Maritime Operations, Ship Management, Maritime Law, Inspections and International Shipping. She is also highly skilled at building and retaining high performance teams for GMS operations in Greece and the surrounding region.  Irena is a graduate of St George Commercial College in Athens. She is fluent in Greek, English, French, Italian and Turkish.

Sofia is a seasoned manager and executive-level administrative professional. She has many years of experience in the international maritime shipping industry—from US and international regulation compliance to vessel response plans and general permits. She specializes in contingency planning, general maritime shipping process, and is well versed in critical environmental issues, statistical research, and general marketing. Sofia studied Communications and Media at the National Kapodistrian University of Athens, Greece.

Jona has over a decade of professional experience analyzing environmental sea-law regulations, as well as contingency plan implementation and consulting. She has worked prior in administrative and office management at the Deputy Executive Director level and was an intern with Doctors Without Borders – Greek Department.  Jona holds a Master of Science in Environmental Policy and Biodiveristy Conservation from the University of the Aegean and a Bachelor of Science in International and European Studies from Panteion University, Athens.

GMSI Manager – GM Academy Director Livia holds a master’s degree in Classic Literature and Philosophy achieved with honors from Università Degli Studi of Napoli. She went on to earn her Master’s degree in micro and macro Economy, business processes of economic planning/programming. Livia is proud to have also earned a Diploma with merit in Maritime Business Management from North Kent College and Lloyd’s Maritime Academy.

GMSI Marine Consultant Master Mariner (ret) 22 years at sea. 7 years as master. Tankers and bulk carriers. 22 years ashore as S/I, DPA, CSO. Drydocking service, new buildings. 10 years as GMSI marine consultant. Coordinating safety/security training and TTX

GMSI IT Consultant 20 years as IT Strategy, System administrator, Network administrator Fleet IT/OT, Cyber Security Since 2014 GMSI IT marine consultant

Mr. Shimada has been involved with the operations of Gallagher Marine Systems (GMS) in Japan since April 2023, and took over the position of Director, GMS Japan on 25 June 2025. He is a 1982 graduate of the Tokyo University of Fisheries (later renamed the Tokyo University of Marine Science and Technology) and since that time, has established himself as a highly-accomplished and respected member of the maritime community in Japan. Prior to his work at GMS, Shimada-san worked at Cornes P&I Co. Ltd. and Tindall Riley (Britannia) Japan Ltd. for 37 years, last serving in the position of General Manager until his retirement. As Director of GMS Japan, Shimada-san is our regional representative and point of contact for clients, many of whom are already familiar with him from his time in leadership within the P&I industry.  

Pedro Roa is a seasoned maritime professional with 24 years of experience in port and vessel operations, specializing in Panama Canal transits. Holding a degree in Port and Maritime Operations, he has built a distinguished career optimizing transit logistics, ensuring regulatory compliance, and driving cost efficiencies for global shipping clients.

 

As an Operations Manager, Pedro excels in strategic planning, real-time problem-solving, and international client relations, leveraging his deep industry expertise to deliver seamless and timely vessel transits. His strong network within the maritime sector, coupled with exceptional negotiation skills, enables him to anticipate challenges and implement effective solutions in the fast-paced shipping environment.

 

Pedro’s commitment to operational excellence and client satisfaction makes him a trusted partner for shipowners and operators navigating one of the world’s most critical maritime corridors.

Omar Bonilla is a dedicated maritime professional with a strong background in port operations, vessel management, and regulatory compliance. Holding a degree in Maritime Administration, he has built a career marked by expertise in optimizing operational efficiency and ensuring seamless maritime logistics.

 

Beyond his industry experience, Omar has also served as a university professor, where he has shared his knowledge and mentored aspiring maritime professionals. His role in academia has allowed him to stay at the forefront of industry trends while shaping the next generation of maritime leaders.

 

Passionate about sports, Omar embraces the values of discipline, teamwork, and perseverance—qualities that define his approach to both his professional and personal life. His adaptability, leadership, and commitment to excellence make him an invaluable asset in the dynamic maritime sector.

With nearly 30 years of experience in the maritime industry, Aristides “Nico” Vial-Nicoletti is a seasoned expert in Panama Canal operations, vessel management, and regulatory compliance. His career began as a Second Engineer on board, providing him with hands-on technical expertise before transitioning into agency operations. Over the years, he has held every key role within the agency structure, gaining an in-depth understanding of port logistics and transit coordination. Nico possesses a deep knowledge of the Panama Canal’s intricate regulations, making him a trusted authority in ensuring smooth and compliant vessel transits. He has also served for many years as an Authorized Person for oil spill-related matters at the Panama Canal, demonstrating his commitment to environmental responsibility and operational excellence. Holding a degree in Marine Engineering, Nico combines technical proficiency with strategic oversight, problem-solving, and leadership in the dynamic shipping environment. His extensive experience and industry insight make him an invaluable asset in navigating the complexities of global maritime operations.

With over four decades of experience in the ship agency industry within the Panama Canal, Charles has held various management roles since 1979, culminating in his current position as President of one of the premier ship agencies operating in the Panama Canal since 1889.

 

He holds a Bachelor of Science in Professional Management (Business Specialty) from Nova University and a Master’s in Shipping (Ports & Canals Specialty) from the University of Panama's Faculty of Law and Political Sciences.

 

Charles has participated in seminars on Environmental Protection and Industrial Safety and has been certified by the Lloyd’s Agency Department as a proficient cargo surveyor upon completing the requisite training. Additionally, he has undertaken oil spill response courses at Texas A&M University in Corpus Christi and has regularly participated in oil pollution prevention tabletop exercises with ECM and  Gallagher Marine Systems.

 

His leadership roles include serving as Director and Vice President of the Panama Chamber of Shipping, multiple terms as Chair of the Canal Affairs Committee, and being designated by the Panama Chamber of Shipping as their representative to the board of the Panama Port Authority from 1996 to 1998. In 1997, he was a panelist at the Universal Congress of the Panama Canal.

 

Beyond his professional endeavors, Charles is an active member of various professional organizations and sports clubs.