The Port Man/Woman of the Year Foundation has unanimously chosen Ard-Jan Kooren, general manager of towing company Kotug, as Port Man of the Year 2012. It is the first time a son of a former Port Man becomes a Port Man as well. His father Ton Kooren was chosen Port Man of the Year 1999.
The members of the Port Man/Woman of the Year Foundation Chose Kooren because they thinks he inspires, he is seen as an innovatively, sustainably and internationally operating entrepreneur and promotor of the Port of Rotterdam, and tries to interest young people for a career in the port.
Title Presentation on Board the Smaragd 2
Kooren is the 32nd port entrepreneur to receive the award that was once instituted by port press club "Kyoto". He succeeds Gerard Deen. The distinction is traditionally presented to the new Port Man on the second Monday in January of the new year, 14 January 2013, during a festive gathering on board the Smaragd 2. On that night, the foundation's president, Theo Jongedijk, will extensively discuss the reasons for choosing Kooren after which he will present him with a medal and certificate.
The Port Man/Woman of the Year Foundation consists of a board with four members of the former Port Press Club Kyoto, independent journalists, the last three Port Men, the latest Young Port Talent and three sponsors of the Foundation.
