The decision is the result of a national and international
process of searching for, consulting with, and evaluating the profiles of
Panamanian professionals, in line with the present and future challenges facing
the Canal.
“The legitimacy of this decision is underpinned by the
independence of the process, the technical rigor of the method applied, and
serious, objective institutional deliberation guided by the best interests of
the Canal and the country,” said Jose Ramon Icaza, Chairman of the Board of
Directors of the Panama Canal Authority as he made the official announcement.
The 64-year-old engineer will hold the post for seven years
from 1 October 2026 until 2033, replacing the current administrator, Ricaurte
Vásquez.
“I have spoken with
the new Administrator of the Panama Canal... to congratulate her and reaffirm
our commitment to working together on strategic projects that generate
employment, prosperity and progress for Panamanians,” Panama President
Jose Raul Mulinowrote on his social media account X.
The new administrator and first woman to lead the Panama
Canal Authority, is a marine engineer from Texas A&M University. She holds
a master’s degree in engineering economics from Panama’s University of Santa
María La Antigua and has completed executive training at INCAE and the Kellogg
School of Management.
She has over 40 years’ experience working at the Panama
Canal in technical, operational and leadership roles, and was appointed in 2019
Deputy Administrator and subsequently Sustainability Officer.
Posing worldwide with her pink hard helmet, she became the
face of the Canal expansion as she took over the project of the third set of
locks when its director Jorge Quijano became Panama Canal Administrator in
2012, being the world’s first woman leading such an infrastructure
construction.
Following the inauguration of the expanded waterway in 2016,
she has led high-impact key initiatives in water management, sustainability and
modernization, distinguishing herself through her ability to manage complex
projects and represent the institution internationally.
“I thank the Board of Directors for this vote of confidence
and for granting me the privilege of continuing to contribute to my country. I
pledge to continue doing my utmost for our country, supporting our clients and
ensuring the strategic planning we have in place so that Panama continues to
grow. I extend my deepest gratitude to my family for these 40 years of service,
and I will continue to dedicate myself fully to the Panama Canal workforce,”
said Marotta.
Courtesy: Seatrade Maritime News
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