ABS Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

ABS has 10 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, technology, finance, and human resources.

Driven by a commitment to maritime safety and innovation, ABS provides essential global marine, offshore, and offshore wind consulting services, shaping industry standards and ensuring operational integrity worldwide.

Leadership Roles at ABS

  • Chief Executive Officer - Maike Desoza
  • Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer - Laura Fulton
  • Chief Operating Officer - Tony Nassif
  • President - Rachel Sawyer
  • Chief Information Officer - Ali Kian
  • Senior Vice President, Marketing and Communications, and Chief Marketing Officer - Jessica Mahaffey
  • Vice President & Chief Technology Officer - Peter Tang-Jensen
  • Chief Information Officer & Senior VP - Kara Pelecky
  • Chief Human Resources Officer - Charles Kemper
  • Executive Vice President & Chief Technology Officer - Donald Liu
  • Maike Desoza - Chief Executive Officer

    Maike Desoza, the Chief Executive Officer at ABS, directs the overarching strategy and global operations for the organization. This leadership role involves setting the company's vision and ensuring alignment with its mission to provide essential marine, offshore, and offshore wind consulting services. Desoza oversees all major business units, driving innovation and maintaining the highest standards of safety and operational integrity across the company's diverse service portfolio. The Chief Executive Officer's responsibilities extend to fostering key stakeholder relationships and guiding ABS through evolving industry landscapes. This executive's focus is on sustainable growth and reinforcing ABS's position as a global leader in classification and technical services. Maike Desoza ensures that ABS consistently delivers value and expertise to clients worldwide, upholding the organization's reputation for excellence and reliability in all its endeavors.

    Laura Fulton - Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer

    Laura Fulton, the Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer at ABS, directs the company's financial strategy, planning, and management. This executive position is fundamental to ensuring the financial health and sustainable growth of ABS's global operations in marine, offshore, and offshore wind consulting. Fulton oversees all financial activities, including accounting, budgeting, treasury, and risk management, providing critical insights to support strategic decision-making. The Chief Financial Officer's responsibilities encompass financial reporting, investor relations, and capital allocation to drive business objectives. Laura Fulton's leadership ensures fiscal discipline and optimizes financial performance across the organization, safeguarding ABS's long-term viability and operational capacity.

    Tony Nassif - Chief Operating Officer

    Tony Nassif, the Chief Operating Officer at ABS, manages the day-to-day operational execution and efficiency across the global enterprise. This critical role involves optimizing service delivery for marine, offshore, and offshore wind consulting, ensuring seamless integration of all operational functions. Nassif directs the implementation of strategic initiatives, focusing on enhancing service quality and expanding market reach. The Chief Operating Officer oversees the coordination of regional operations, driving performance improvements and resource allocation to meet client demands effectively. Tony Nassif's leadership ensures that ABS maintains its operational excellence and responsiveness in a dynamic global market. This executive's purview includes streamlining processes and fostering a culture of continuous improvement throughout the organization's service delivery framework.
    Tony Nassif

    Rachel Sawyer - President

    Rachel Sawyer, the President at ABS, holds a significant leadership position overseeing key aspects of the company's global operations and strategic direction. This role is instrumental in driving the delivery of comprehensive marine, offshore, and offshore wind consulting services. Sawyer's responsibilities include managing major business initiatives, fostering client relationships, and ensuring operational excellence across various divisions. The President's focus is on executing the company's strategic plan, enhancing market presence, and driving growth in critical sectors. Rachel Sawyer's leadership contributes to the overall success and integrity of ABS's service offerings, reinforcing its commitment to industry standards and client satisfaction.

    Ali Kian - Chief Information Officer

    Ali Kian, the Chief Information Officer at ABS, architects and directs the company's global information technology strategy and infrastructure. This leadership position is vital for supporting ABS's extensive marine, offshore, and offshore wind consulting services through robust digital solutions. Kian oversees the development and implementation of advanced IT systems, ensuring data security, system reliability, and technological innovation. The Chief Information Officer's responsibilities include managing all aspects of information technology, from network operations to software development and cybersecurity. Ali Kian drives the digital transformation initiatives that enhance operational efficiency and client service delivery. This executive's focus is on leveraging technology to empower ABS's workforce and provide cutting-edge solutions to the maritime and energy sectors.

    Jessica Mahaffey - Senior Vice President, Marketing and Communications, and Chief Marketing Officer

    Jessica Mahaffey, the Senior Vice President, Marketing and Communications, and Chief Marketing Officer at ABS, leads the strategic development and execution of all marketing, communications, and brand initiatives. This role is essential for amplifying ABS's global presence and communicating its expertise in marine, offshore, and offshore wind consulting services. Mahaffey oversees brand management, public relations, digital marketing, and corporate communications, ensuring a consistent and compelling message across all platforms. The Chief Marketing Officer's responsibilities include driving market awareness, supporting business development efforts, and enhancing stakeholder engagement. Jessica Mahaffey's leadership focuses on strengthening ABS's market position and articulating its value proposition to a diverse international audience.

    Peter Tang-Jensen - Vice President & Chief Technology Officer

    Peter Tang-Jensen, the Vice President & Chief Technology Officer at ABS, spearheads technological innovation and the advancement of the company's technical capabilities. This executive role is crucial for maintaining ABS's leadership in providing cutting-edge marine, offshore, and offshore wind consulting services. Tang-Jensen directs research and development efforts, focusing on emerging technologies and their application within the maritime and energy industries. The Chief Technology Officer's responsibilities include setting the technical vision, overseeing the development of new technological solutions, and ensuring the integration of advanced engineering practices. Peter Tang-Jensen's leadership drives the technological evolution of ABS, enhancing its service offerings and reinforcing its commitment to safety and efficiency.

    Kara Pelecky - Chief Information Officer & Senior VP

    Kara Pelecky, the Chief Information Officer & Senior VP at ABS, shares responsibility for the company's information technology strategy and execution. This dual role ensures robust IT infrastructure and digital solutions supporting ABS's comprehensive marine, offshore, and offshore wind consulting services. Pelecky collaborates on the oversight of IT operations, cybersecurity measures, and the implementation of technological advancements. The Chief Information Officer's focus includes enhancing system performance, data integrity, and user support across the global organization. Kara Pelecky's leadership contributes to the technological backbone that enables ABS to deliver its services efficiently and securely, driving innovation and operational excellence.

    Charles Kemper - Chief Human Resources Officer

    Charles Kemper, the Chief Human Resources Officer at ABS, leads the strategic management of the company's human capital and organizational development. This executive role is pivotal in supporting ABS's mission by cultivating a skilled and engaged workforce for its marine, offshore, and offshore wind consulting services. Kemper oversees talent acquisition, employee relations, compensation and benefits, and learning and development programs. The Chief Human Resources Officer's responsibilities include fostering a positive and productive work environment, ensuring compliance with labor laws, and aligning HR strategies with overall business objectives. Charles Kemper's leadership focuses on attracting, retaining, and developing the talent necessary for ABS's continued success and global impact.

    Donald Liu - Executive Vice President & Chief Technology Officer

    Donald Liu, the Executive Vice President & Chief Technology Officer at ABS, drives the technological vision and innovation strategy for the organization. This senior leadership role is critical for advancing ABS's capabilities in marine, offshore, and offshore wind consulting services through technological excellence. Liu oversees the research, development, and implementation of advanced technologies, ensuring ABS remains at the forefront of industry innovation. The Chief Technology Officer's responsibilities include guiding technical standards, fostering collaboration on complex engineering challenges, and enhancing the digital infrastructure that supports global operations. Donald Liu's leadership ensures that ABS leverages cutting-edge technology to deliver superior services and maintain its position as a trusted industry leader.

    Explore Leadership Teams in Business Services

    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding ABS Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads ABS?
    ABS is led by Maike Desoza (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Laura Fulton (Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer) and Tony Nassif (Chief Operating Officer).
    Who is part of ABS’s executive team?
    The executive team of ABS includes leaders such as Maike Desoza (Chief Executive Officer), Laura Fulton (Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer), Tony Nassif (Chief Operating Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does ABS have?
    ABS has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in ABS’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of ABS includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer, President, Chief Information Officer.