Rob Smeets steps up as new port of Antwerp-Bruges CEO
The port of Antwerp-Bruges has appointed Rob Smeets (above) as its new chief executive, for ...
Photo: Hempel
Danish logistics and ferry operator DFDS has appointed Michael Hansen (above) as its next president and CEO, to replace the departing Torben Carlsen.
The company said Mr Hansen was expected to assume his new role by 1 July, with Mr Carlsen due to step down on that date, following his failure to turn around DFDS’s Mediterranean operations.
DFDS chairman Claus Hemmingsen said: “Michael brings new perspectives and experiences to lead the company’s ongoing transition. The clear short-term task is to lift financial performance.
“The longer-term task is to continue to unlock network value through optimisation of operations and organic growth on the back of DFDS’s enduring strengths.”
Since 2022, Mr Hansen has been CEO of industrial paint and coatings firm Hempel, where he “led a strategic transformation that has lifted financial performance, strengthened cash flow, and improved operational scalability”.
Before joining Hempel in 2017, he had spent just under two decades with Maersk in senior management roles across Europe, Latin America, and Oceania, including CEO of shortsea subsidiary of Seago Line, and global head of sales for Maersk Line.
“I am looking very much forward to joining DFDS and the opportunity to lead the ongoing transition to profitable growth,” Mr Hansen said. “I am passionate about engaging and empowering people to deliver commercial and financial performance and equally passionate about moving sustainability forward.
“DFDS has an impressive legacy but is currently challenged in some areas. By working together and leveraging the strong network we can unlock the full potential,” he added.
Meanwhile, traffic figures for December released by DFDS today show it carried 1.2% more freight traffic in the month compared with December 2024, with full-year tonnage flat.
“North Sea volumes were above 2024, driven by higher volumes on most routes. Mediterranean volumes were as expected below 2024 due to capacity reductions.
“Channel volumes were above 2024, driven by the new Jersey volumes, as the total Dover Strait volumes were on level with 2024.
“Baltic Sea volumes were just below 2024, while Strait of Gibraltar volumes were above 2024,” the company said.
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