KIMO International is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Preben Friis-Hauge as its new President. Preben, who has served with distinction as Vice President since 2023, officially assumed the role following the KIMO Annual General Meeting in Inverness on Wednesday 8th October 2025. He takes over the reins from former President, Councillor Trish Robertson of The Highland Council, whose term has concluded. Jacco Knape of KIMO Netherlands and Belgium was appointed as the new Vice President of KIMO.
Preben Friis-Hauge brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to marine environmental protection to the presidency. A longstanding member of KIMO Denmark, the vice president of the North Sea Commission and a respected figure in Danish local government, he has been instrumental in advancing KIMO’s mission to eliminate pollution and promote sustainable practices in the marine environment.
Outgoing President, Councillor Trish Robertson, expressed her confidence in the new leadership: “It has been an honour to serve as President of KIMO International and to work alongside so many dedicated individuals. I am delighted to pass the presidency to Preben, whose passion and strategic vision I have witnessed firsthand during his time as Vice President. I have no doubt that KIMO will continue to thrive and make a significant impact under his guidance.”
The entire KIMO network extends its deepest gratitude to Councillor Trish Robertson for her unwavering dedication and strong leadership over her term. We also warmly congratulate Preben Friis-Hauge on his new role and look forward to a future of continued collaboration and success.
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A Conversation with the New President: Q&A with Preben Friis-Hauge
Following his appointment, we sat down with Preben to discuss his new role and his aspirations for KIMO International.
Q1: Congratulations on your appointment as President. What are your goals as you begin your term?
Preben Friis-Hauge: “Thank you. My primary goal is to build on the strong foundation laid down by the collective efforts of all KIMO members over the last 35 years. By building on this foundation and further enhancing collaboration between our national KIMO networks we can share best practices and amplify our collective voice on the international stage. The power of KIMO has always been in its local roots and global reach.”
Q2: What do you see as the biggest challenges facing our seas today, and how can KIMO address it?
Preben Friis-Hauge: “. I want to deliver tangible results for our coastal communities by focusing our efforts on the newly agreed Strategy for 2026-2030. With 75+ municipalities working together we can make big strides together in improving maritime safety as well as preventing and reducing both chemical pollution and marine litter. KIMO will address this by continuing our hands-on, practical projects that directly reduce pollution. At the same time, we will advocate fiercely for policies that link marine protection with local community action, emphasising the vital role of healthy oceans in sustainable coastal communities. ”
Q3: How can KIMO members and the public best support the organisation’s vision in the coming years?
Preben Friis-Hauge: “Our members are the lifeblood of KIMO. Their continued activism and on-the-ground work are irreplaceable. I encourage every member municipality and individual to continue working daily for healthy seas. Your actions matter. Support sustainable seafood, reduce single-use plastics, and participate in local beach cleans. Every piece of litter prevented from entering the sea is a victory. By working together—from local communities to international bodies—we can ensure a healthy, resilient marine environment for generations to come.”