GOOS is pleased to announce the election of two new co-chairs to lead its Steering Committee: David Legler, Director of the Global Ocean Monitoring and Observing Program at the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and Balakrishnan Nair, Director I/C of the Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS).

The new co-chairs succeed Toste Tanhua (GEOMAR Helmholtz Centre for Ocean Research Kiel) and Anya Waite (Ocean Frontier Institute). 

David Legler brings a wealth of experience as the head of GOMO and former Chair of the GOOS Observations Coordination Group (OCG). At GOMO, he is leading NOAA’s efforts to develop and sustain a global in-situ ocean observing system and related products for researchers, forecasters, and other consumers of ocean knowledge. 

Balakrishnan Nair is in his second term with the GOOS Steering Committee representing Regional Expert Group IV. He is the Group Director for Ocean Modelling, Applied Research and Services (O-MARS) Group at the Indian National Center for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS). 

David and Balakrishnan step into their roles at a critical moment for GOOS, five years into the GOOS 2030 Strategy and as GOOS is undergoing a reform as directed by Member States. GOOS is looking towards a sustained and expanded system, optimising engagement, and working to strengthen its operations. The combined expertise and vision of the co-chairs will ensure that GOOS continues to lead a global framework in providing essential ocean data and knowledge to address pressing societal challenges.

The GOOS community extends its gratitude to Toste Tanhua and Anya Waite for their exceptional leadership and warmly welcomes David Legler and Balakrishnan Nair as they lead GOOS into its next chapter.