Danish-born Helle Gleie has since 1977 been deeply involved in many segments of the shipping industry. She has a diverse background in commercial and operational areas, most recently as CEO of her own company, Denmark-based ITOLEAD Consulting Group, and previously as head of EMS Crew Management and head of global crew operation at Maersk Supply Service. She has also worked for BIMCO for several years, has been at sea, is a certified network consultant and has studied at CBS, Copenhagen Business School (Executive Blue MBA).

The expertise and specialist understanding of varied issues in the industry garnered from these positions has given Helle, as the first director of the Sustainable Shipping Initiative (SSI) from September 2013, a firm footing to drive the SSI towards its 'Vision 2040'. Helle is also a member of the CMI (Comité Maritime International), WISTA (Women in Shipping and Trading Association) and other relevant maritime associations.