Leadership

Elbert S. ‘Ellie’ Hepburn is the President and CEO of Elnet Maritime Ltd.

Ellie began his career at 16 years old, working as a stevedore. This job ignited a keen interest in the maritime industry and as his passion grew, he continued to work, discover, and excel through his teenage years. 

After graduating from high school, Ellie was offered a full-time job as a ship agent. Every day this ambitious agent showed up for work eager to learn the ins and outs of the maritime industry. Over the years, Ellie played an integral role in the operations of Tanja Enterprises (1996-2001), United Shipping (2001-2003), Freeport Ship Services (2003-2005) and Global United (2005-2008).

In 2008, Ellie was enthusiastic for a new opportunity and decided to create one for himself. With his mother, Janet Shepherd, by his side, the two launched Elnet Maritime Ltd. On August 27, 2008, Elnet received its first agency appointment for the chartered tanker M/T Dhonoussa that was birthing at the BORCO Terminal.

More than 15 years later, Elnet has evolved into the #1 maritime agency in The Bahamas offering ship agency services, customs brokerage, trucking, offshore lightering, offshore bunkering, freight forwarding, logistics and warehousing.

Elnet Maritime Ltd. is a powerhouse in the local and international maritime market. The agency has brokered many international contracts through the years including a recent partnership with the global entity Shell.

In 2021, Elnet Maritime Ltd. moved its offices to the newly constructed Elnet Maritime Center (EMC), a 12,000 sq. ft., state-of-the-art, multi-functional business facility. The EMC is also home to Elnet ‘Maritime 101’, a free introductory course for high school students interested in pursuing careers related to the maritime industry.

One of Mr. Hepburn’s greatest honors came when The Honorable Philip E. Davis, Q.C., Prime Minister of The Bahamas made an official visit to the Elnet Maritime Center and commended Mr. Hepburn stating, “Your vision, ambition and progress to date have already singled you out as among the best of us.”