2025 President’s Invitation Lecture
Ship Energy Efficiency
Key Sponsor:
The President’s Invitation Lecture is one of the most significant events in the Royal Institution of Naval Architects’ (RINA) calendar. It brings together leading experts in the maritime sector to discuss pressing industry issues and share forward-thinking ideas that shape the future of maritime engineering.
The 2025 lecture, supported by long-standing sponsor American Bureau of Shipping (ABS), will focus on Ship Energy Efficiency – a key factor in sustainable shipping. Attendees will hear a thought-provoking presentation from a distinguished industry expert – Xavier Leclercq, Vice President Newbuilding, CMA CGM, followed by a panel discussion providing a forum for engagement and debate on this vital topic.
The lecture forms part of The Naval Architect 2025, RINA’s flagship membership event, taking place on 24–25 November 2025 at the Technology & Innovation Centre (TIC) in Glasgow, United Kingdom. This two-day event will bring together RINA members from across the maritime sector to explore the latest developments, discuss challenges, and shape the future of the profession. Sessions will cover key topics including IMO regulations, environmental sustainability, safety, and innovation, and are designed to support and inspire members at all career stages.
Why Attend?
- Engage with top maritime professionals and thought leaders
- Participate in an interactive session with a renowned industry expert
- Attend an exclusive drinks reception and networking dinner
- Connect with RINA members and discover the benefits of joining the global RINA community
This event provides a unique opportunity to stay informed on industry developments, expand professional networks, and gain valuable insights into the future of naval architecture and maritime engineering.
Find more details and tickets for The Naval Architect 2025 here.
Registration
| Ticket Type | Ticket Price |
|---|---|
| RINA Member / Corporate Partner | £50 + VAT |
| RINA Non-Member | £100 + VAT |
| Group Fee (3+ Attendees) – Fee per Ticket | £80 + VAT |
| RINA Student Members (Undergraduates)* | Free |
* Please note that RINA Student Members can attend the conference free of charge but the ticket availability is limited. If you would like to become a RINA Student Member, please check your eligibility and apply here.
Speakers
Xavier Leclercq, Managing Director CMASHIPS, CMA CGM
Xavier Leclercq is an experienced professional in the maritime field, holding positions of high responsibility for more than 40 years. His background covers fleet management, shipbuilding, maintenance, and technical innovation in several international companies.
Currently, as Managing Director at CMASHIPS since 2018, he oversees the operations of a fleet of 400 vessels, manages an annual budget of €1.5 billion, and an OPEX of €17.5 billion over three years, with 580 employees spread worldwide and 13,000 seafarers. He is responsible for the new construction program and the environmental improvement of the CMA CGM fleet, including a 140-ships order book in China and Korea.
Previously, Xavier served as Senior Vice President of New Construction and Innovation at Royal Caribbean from 2015 to 2018. In this role, he was responsible for a $15 billion investment program, leading the delivery of 12 cruise ships, including the largest in the world, and implementing innovative project management methods and energy optimization programs.
From 2003 to 2014, he was the Design and R&D Vice President at Chantier de l’Atlantique, where he managed the design and commissioning of complex vessels. Overseeing a team of 89 engineers and 325 technicians, he contributed to an annual turnover of €1.5 billion and was involved in the delivery of 53 vessels and the development of research and development programs.
Xavier’s varied previous experience includes roles such as Machine Department Manager at Alstom, Project Manager at Festival Cruises, and Captain and Chief Engineer on cruise ships, with responsibilities in project management, maintenance, and technical supervision. He also holds an MBA from INSEAD and is fluent in English and German”
Registration
Cancellations received less than two weeks before the event cannot be accepted and are subject to the full event fee. Delegates may be substituted; however, this must be sent in writing and confirmed with the RINA Events Team. It may be necessary for reasons beyond our control to alter the content and timing of the programme. In the unlikely event that RINA cancels the event for any reason, our liability is limited to the return of the registration fee. If you have any questions, please reach out to the RINA Events team at events@rina.org,uk
Sponsorship Opportunities
RINA events provide the perfect opportunity for effective and highly targeted marketing. Sponsorship and exhibition opportunities exist for all of our events. If you have any questions regarding the event or wish to discuss the available sponsorship/exhibition opportunities, please get in touch with the RINA Events team at events@rina.org.uk
Personal Data
Please note that personal data, such as name, company, and job title will be collected and provided in the delegate list format to the event attendees. No contact details will be included in the delegate list. If you would like to not be included in the list for any reason, please inform the RINA Events Team at events@rina.org.uk
RINA events code of behaviour
The Royal Institution of Naval Architects is proud to have a diverse membership and aims for all members, guests, and attendees to enjoy their time at RINA events. Just as we expect others to treat us courteously, we should also extend courtesy to fellow members, guests, and attendees.
If any attendee at a RINA event feels that another’s behaviour towards them is unwelcome, disrespectful, or undignified, they should inform the RINA staff member or get in touch with us at events@rina.org.uk
Anyone deemed to be acting discourteously towards other attendees will be asked to leave the event.
Filming/Photography
Please note that filming/photography will be taking place at this event for promotional and archival purposes. The photographs and recordings made are likely to appear on our website and social media. If you would prefer not to be photographed please let the Marketing team know at marketing@rina.org.uk.
Registration
Please note:
Your membership number must be entered when choosing a membership rate, otherwise your order will be subject to cancellation.
