Meyer Group of Companies has announced the promotion of Joe Simas to vice-president marine operations.Mr Simas is now responsible for Meyer Freight and Meyer Shipping, divisions of Meyer Agencies Ltd.He will assume the leadership role for Meyer Shipping from Captain John Moore who has moved to the position of senior marine consultant. Meyer Group of Companies is a diverse business involved in shipping, freight, travel, tours, IT services and property development.Mr Simas joined Meyer Agencies Ltd in 1990 and worked as a ship boarding agent until becoming shipping manager in 2003. In 2009, he added management of Meyer Freight to his responsibilities when he was promoted to the new position of general manager of Meyer Freight and Shipping.Meyer Group of Companies CEO J Henry Hayward said: “For the half century I have been with the company, Meyer has evolved steadily from our roots in Bermuda’s shipping industry to the expansive group of companies we are today. John has played an essential role in establishing Meyer Agencies as the leader in Bermuda’s maritime industry. As we move forward, we are confident in Joe Simas’ knowledge and dedication and look forward to Meyer Freight and Meyer Shipping’s continuing success and growth under Joe’s leadership.”Mr Simas said: “I would first like to thank Captain John Moore for all his help in the past 20 years. I wouldn’t be in this position without him.“I take great privilege in this new appointment of vice-president marine operations. I look forward to leading Meyer Agencies forward into the future and continue to strive to make Meyer Freight and Shipping the industry leader in the freight and ship operations field.”