Angela Chao, the Chief Executive Officer of Foremost Group, a U.S.-based shipping company headquartered in New York, has passed away at the age of 50.
The news of her demise was disclosed by the company on Monday, revealing that Chao, the sibling of businesswoman and former government official Elaine Chao, met her unfortunate end in a car accident. The press release from Foremost Group refrained from providing intricate details about the circumstances surrounding her demise.
The establishment of Foremost Group dates back to 1964 when Dr. James S. C. Chao and Ruth Mulan Chu Chao, Angela’s parents, founded the company, specializing in shipping dry bulk products globally.
In an official statement, Foremost Group highlighted Chao’s fervent dedication to integrating environmentally sustainable practices into the company’s operations. This commitment resulted in the development of a fleet recognized for its status as some of the largest, most contemporary, and environmentally friendly ships globally.
James Chao, speaking on behalf of the family, conveyed that Angela Chao, distinguished by her academic prowess, diligence, and unwavering core values, not only excelled in her own right but also motivated others to pursue their aspirations, emerging as a trailblazer for women in executive roles.
A Harvard University graduate with a bachelor’s degree in economics and an MBA in business/commerce from Harvard Business School, Chao commenced her professional journey with Foremost Group in 1996. Rising through the ranks, she served as senior vice president from 2001 to 2008, concentrating on ship operations and management before ascending to the position of deputy chair in 2009. Angela Chao assumed the role of CEO in 2018.
Beyond her responsibilities at Foremost Group, Chao contributed her expertise as a board member for the American Bureau of Shipping Council and the advisory board of the Massachusetts Maritime Academy’s International Maritime Business Department. Additionally, she held a position on the chairman’s council of the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York and served as the co-chair of The Asian American Foundation’s advisory council.
Expressions of sympathy poured in from various quarters. The U.S. Coast Guard Academy extended its deepest condolences to the Chao family, emphasizing Angela Chao’s legacy as a pioneer in the maritime sector and a valued friend of the Academy.
During this period of grief, our thoughts are with the Chao family as they navigate through the loss of Angela, a figure remembered for her elegance, compassion, and leadership by all who had the privilege of knowing her.
