The International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) has entered a new phase under a new leadership team, as the Monaco-based organisation prepares to accelerate its digital transformation and expand its operational capabilities around the world.
Rear Admiral Luigi Sinapi began his three-year mandate as Secretary-General on September 1, while Adam Greenland has joined the organisation as Director of the Inter-Regional Coordination and Support Programme. Dr John Nyberg continues as Director of the Technical Programme.
The new team was formally presented to members of the Monaco Government, the diplomatic corps and representatives of intergovernmental organisations based in the Principality during a reception at the IHO headquarters on Monday, September 21.
Rear Admiral Sinapi, an Italian national and experienced naval officer and hydrographer, has held senior responsibilities within the IHO since 2020. His priorities include strengthening cooperation between member states, international organisations and the private sector, while accelerating efforts to map the world’s seabed and develop hydrographic capabilities.
“Hydrography is not only a science, it is a bridge between nations, economies and peoples,” Rear Admiral Sinapi said.
His appointment comes as the IHO moves towards the global operational implementation of its S-100 framework, a new generation of standards for digital marine geospatial information.
S-100 is expected to transform how marine data is collected, shared and used, providing access to increasingly dynamic information about ocean conditions. The technology is also intended to support safer navigation and more efficient port operations, while improved route planning could help reduce fuel consumption and associated emissions from shipping.
A major challenge for the organisation will be ensuring that all member states can benefit from the transition, including countries with more limited hydrographic resources and technical capabilities.
“The IHO is entering a new era,” Rear Admiral Sinapi said. “We must innovate to turn technological developments into practical solutions, unite our member states and partners around common ambitions, and move from standards and commitments to measurable results.”
Adam Greenland brings more than 40 years of experience in hydrography and maritime operations to the new leadership team. He previously headed the Hydrographic Service of New Zealand and will focus on capacity development, training the next generation of hydrographic professionals and helping the organisation respond to technological and environmental changes.
Meanwhile, Dr John Nyberg of the United States is entering the final three years of his current mandate as Director of the Technical Programme. Having overseen the development of S-100 as it progressed towards deployment, he will now focus on consolidating the infrastructure and services required for its long-term operation.
This includes making the IHO Infrastructure Centre in Busan, South Korea, fully operational, continuing the deployment of S-100 and completing specifications for the framework’s second phase of products.
The IHO is also expanding its operational presence. A GEBCO Secretariat is due to be inaugurated in Monaco in the coming months, while the Infrastructure Centre in Busan will become the organisation’s first office outside the Principality.
The developments form part of the IHO Strategic Plan for 2027-2032, which identifies three priorities: completing the digital transition, mapping the unknown and building for the future.
The new leadership team will guide the organisation until autumn 2029. The IHO Secretariat, based in Monaco, currently has 20 staff members, supported by three project officers from Japan, South Korea and Peru.