UK shipowner Bibby Line Group is hunting for a new CEO after Sir Michael Bibby said he would step down by the end of this year.
The 54-year-old has been with his family company for 26 years, including 18 as the boss.
He will stay on as a non-executive director.
Bibby Line Group, said: “Stepping back from this role has been part of Sir Michael’s long-term plans since he evolved the group’s structure in 2012.