As Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Shippers’ Authority, Professor Ransford Gyampo says his foray into executive service has brought theoretical ideals face-to-face with real-world complexities — but he insists theory must never be abandoned for convenience.
“There are things that I know exist in theory, and in the field they may not work,” he admitted. “But theory is what is expected to shape practice.
“When practice deviates from theory, it is the responsibility of leaders to bring what ought to be into what is.”
Just six months into his tenure, the political science lecturer turned public servant has begun questioning longstanding practices, scrutinising institutional habits, and initiating cost-cutting reforms — starting with himself. Despite his entitlement to business class air travel, he revealed that he has consistently flown economy to save money for the organisation.
“I’ll remain the only CEO who would fly economy anytime I travel,” he stated in an interview on Channel One TV monitored by MyNewsGh.
“Even though it’s in my conditions of service to fly business, I said, no. The organization is facing financial challenges. I wouldn’t be the CEO who would milk the organization dry.”
He has also opted to use his private vehicle and personally foot the bill for fuel — a decision he said stems from a deep belief that public leadership must embody restraint and accountability.
On the regulatory front, Prof. Gyampo has been tackling rising tensions between freight forwarders and shipping lines. Under new legislation, the Shippers’ Authority now has expanded regulatory power to either approve or disapprove shipping charges.
“Shipping lines want to make profit. Freight forwarders feel they’re being milked dry,” he explained. “We’re not just there to negotiate anymore. Under our new law, we approve or disapprove charges.”
He cited a recent example in which shipping lines were asked to justify newly introduced fees. Where justifications were lacking, the Authority rejected the charges.
He also recalled how the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA) introduced new tariffs without prior consultation, prompting swift intervention by his office. He credited the GPHA’s Director General for helping quickly resolve the issue through collaboration and openness.
Gyampo’s approach blends his academic background with an emerging commitment to practical leadership. For him, theory and action must go hand in hand.
“I never dreamt of becoming a teacher,” he reflected. “But now that I’m here, I’m using everything I’ve studied to help shape the next generation — and the institutions I serve.”
