Tanya Saadé Zeenny: A Visionary Leader Bridging Maritime Excellence and Social Impact

Tanya Saadé Zeenny stands as a prominent figure in the global maritime industry, seamlessly blending corporate leadership with a profound commitment to social responsibility. As the Executive Officer of the CMA CGM Group and President of the CMA CGM Foundation, her journey reflects a harmonious integration of business acumen and humanitarian dedication.

Born into the illustrious Saadé family, Tanya is the daughter of Jacques Saadé, the visionary founder of CMA CGM. Established in 1978 in Marseille, France, CMA CGM has evolved into one of the world’s leading shipping companies, operating over 500 vessels and serving 420 commercial ports across 160 countries. The company’s impressive growth, culminating in a revenue of $47 billion in 2023, is a testament to the family’s unwavering dedication to excellence in maritime logistics.

Tanya’s academic pursuits led her to the American Business School in Paris, where she honed the skills that would later define her professional trajectory. In 1995, she embarked on her journey with CMA CGM by establishing the Corporate Communications department, laying the foundation for the company’s global brand identity. Her strategic vision and leadership capabilities propelled her through various pivotal roles, including Vice-President of the CMA CGM Foundation, Vice-Chairman of the Supervisory Board, Group Administration & Facilities Management, and Group Secretary General. In 2014, she ascended to the role of Executive Officer, where she continues to influence the company’s strategic direction and corporate ethos.

Under Tanya’s stewardship, the CMA CGM Foundation has emerged as a beacon of social impact, focusing on humanitarian aid and education. Since its inception in 2005, the Foundation has supported over 450 initiatives worldwide, collaborating with esteemed organizations such as UNICEF and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC). One of the Foundation’s hallmark programs, “Containers of Hope,” leverages CMA CGM’s logistical capabilities to deliver essential medical supplies to underserved regions, exemplifying the synergy between corporate resources and humanitarian needs.

Education remains a cornerstone of Tanya’s philanthropic vision. Recognizing its transformative power, she has championed the establishment of innovative schools aimed at reintegrating marginalized youth into the educational fold. In Marseille, for instance, the Foundation has initiated programs that provide vocational training in fields such as heritage restoration and cinema, equipping over 1,300 students with skills aligned with future job markets. These initiatives underscore her belief in education as a catalyst for social cohesion and economic empowerment.

Tanya’s commitment to community development is further evident in her efforts to promote access to sports and maritime activities, particularly among the youth of Marseille. Through partnerships with local associations and the renovation of city stadiums, the Foundation fosters environments where young individuals can engage in physical activities, learn teamwork, and develop a sense of belonging. Such endeavors not only enhance public health but also bridge societal divides.

In the realm of corporate social responsibility, Tanya has been instrumental in embedding sustainability and inclusivity into CMA CGM’s operational framework. She spearheaded the “We Are Shipping” initiative, a groundbreaking program aimed at promoting female leadership within the traditionally male-dominated shipping industry. By advocating for gender diversity and implementing policies that foster equitable opportunities, she has positioned CMA CGM as a progressive force in global logistics

Environmental stewardship is another pillar of Tanya’s leadership. Under her guidance, CMA CGM has adopted green technologies, invested in energy-efficient vessels, and explored alternative fuels to minimize its ecological footprint. These initiatives reflect a holistic approach to sustainability, balancing economic growth with environmental responsibility.

Tanya’s multifaceted contributions have garnered international recognition. She has been honored as a Chevalier of the French Légion d’Honneur and is a member of the French National Order of Merit, accolades that acknowledge her impact on both industry and society.

Beyond her professional endeavors, Tanya remains deeply connected to her family’s legacy. Alongside her siblings, Rodolphe and Jacques Jr., and their mother, Naïla, she continues to uphold the values instilled by their father, ensuring that CMA CGM remains a family-driven enterprise committed to excellence, innovation, and social responsibility.

In essence, Tanya Saadé Zeenny embodies a leadership paradigm that transcends traditional corporate boundaries. Her ability to intertwine business success with meaningful social impact serves as an inspiring blueprint for contemporary leadership in the global arena.