Diana Shipping’s CEO has COVID-19

Simeon Palios, chairman and chief executive officer (CEO) of Greek shipowner Diana Shipping, has tested positive for the coronavirus.

Consequently, Diana’s board of directors has appointed Semiramis Paliou, the company’s deputy chief executive officer, on a temporary basis. This was revealed in a US SEC filing dated 24 March.

Simeon P. Palios has served as the CEO and chairman of Diana Shipping since 2005. He is also CEO and chairman of Athens-based containership owner Performance Shipping, previously known as Diana Containerships.

Earlier this month, Greek shipping magnate and owner of football clubs Olympiacos and Nottingham Forest Evangelos Marinakis was also diagnosed with the coronavirus.

After spending two weeks in isolation, Marinakis underwent a second medical test which turned out negative.

“I … feel the obligation, in these critical times, to address a message inspired by experiencing this brief adventure of mine. It is worth staying at home to protect ourselves and our relatives. By staying at home, we shield ourselves and deny the virus intruding in our lives,” he said in a statement issued on 24 March.