The International Association of Classification Societies (IACS) has appointed Mr. Pan Zhongbing as Chair of its Survey Panel, recognizing his extensive expertise in ship surveying and classification.
Mr. Pan brings 32 years of experience across ship and marine equipment surveys, statutory compliance, quality management, flag state affairs, and maritime emergency response. He has held senior roles at the China Classification Society (CCS), including at the Shanghai Branch, the European Centre in Hamburg, and CCS Headquarters. His long-standing involvement with IACS has given him a global perspective and deep technical insight into classification governance and statutory survey practices.
A strong advocate for technological innovation, Mr. Pan has led initiatives such as the implementation of electronic certificates and the development of Remote Inspection Techniques (RIT). He guided the industry-wide adoption of ship remote surveys and authored the Guidelines for Ship Remote Surveys, creating a solid framework for safe and efficient survey operations.
Since October 2022, he has served as Deputy General Manager and Quality Manager of CCS Shanghai Branch. In 2025, he was named a leading talent in the Shanghai High-end Shipping “Pilot Talent” Programme. A graduate of Shanghai Jiao Tong University in Ship Engineering, he combines a rigorous technical foundation with practical leadership.
Mr. Pan’s contributions have earned significant recognition. He received the First Prize from the China Institute of Navigation Science and Technology Progress Award for Key Technologies and Applications of Ship Remote Surveys, and the Second Prize for Research and Application of Intelligent Drones in Ship Survey.
Under his leadership, the IACS Survey Panel aims to raise survey standards, strengthen maritime safety, and drive innovation across the global shipping industry.
