Since 2016, Søren Skou has led the transformation of Maersk from a diversified conglomerate to an integrated logistics company and set the business on a new growth trajectory. Vincent Clerc, currently CEO of the company’s Ocean & Logistic business, will succeed as CEO of Maersk effective January 1st, 2023.

Skou has worked at Maersk for almost forty years, seven of which as CEO. According to Chair of the Board of Directors, Robert M. Uggla, he ‘has been instrumental in redefining Maersk into a customer centric end-to-end logistics provider with a global leadership position in sustainable transportation solutions.’

On Clerc succeeding Skou, Robert M. Uggla adds: ‘Since 2019, Vincent has been the CEO of Maersk Ocean & Logistics, which contributes a significant part of the company’s invested capital and results. He has been a pivotal leader for Maersk’s transformation, demonstrating great strategic acumen, an ability to execute complex plans and deliver long term shareholder value through compelling customer solutions. The strong tail winds that benefited the supply chain industries during the pandemic are coming to an end. With an increasingly challenging outlook, the Board believes Vincent holds the right experience and capabilities as CEO to pursue and oversee Maersk’s strategic and organisational development in the years to come.’

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To the next level

Skou leaves Maersk with gratitude and pride. Skou says: ‘For almost seven years I have worked together with my team to change the business model, the culture, the digital backbone, and the results to make Maersk a profitable growth company again. […] Now is the right time for Maersk, for Vincent, and for me to make this transition. The company has executed very well over the past years. We have never been stronger financially and we have an inspiring and visionary plan for the continuation of our global integrator strategy that will guide Maersk for many years to come.’

‘I have worked closely with Vincent for more than a decade and I am confident that he is ready to take the company to the next level. I look forward to a new chapter in life where I will continue to work at non-executive level and have more time for my family and for other interests,’ states Skou.

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Decarbonisation presents business opportunity

Clerc says he is glad for the opportunity to lead the next stages of Maersk’s transformation. ‘On the heels of a pandemic, and now with the war in Ukraine and an energy crisis upon us, there are many tough challenges ahead; challenges that impact us all and where Maersk can make a difference. Companies are rethinking their supply chains in this new environment, they are looking for more stability, and more support on their decarbonisation journey. This represents an incredible business opportunity for Maersk that we all are eager to seize.’

He concludes: ‘It will demand of us that we stay the course on our strategy, delivering on our digitalisation and decarbonisation roadmaps, while keeping a sharper than ever eye on our operational excellence and performance. When we do that, we will make a profound positive impact for all our stakeholders.’

Picture: Søren Skou (left) retires as CEO of Maersk, handing the baton to Vincent Clerc, who is appointed new CEO.

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