SEA Europe, the industry association representing European shipyards and maritime equipment manufacturers, has selected Alberto Maestrini to become its new Chairman. He succeeds René Berkvens effective immediately.
Maestrini graduated in Electronic Engineering from the University of Genoa in 1983. In September 2020, he was appointed Executive Vice President, responsible for the Offshore and Special Vessels business in Fincantieri. He has been Chairman and CEO of Vard Group AS, a Fincantieri company, from September 2020 to June 2024. Then he was appointed Chairman of Vard Group.
He also holds CEO and Chairman positions in Vard Holdings and in Fincantieri Oil & Gas. From September 2016 to September 2020, he was the General Manager of Fincantieri S.p.A. Since February 2016, he has been the Deputy General Manager of Fincantieri S.p.A., while since January 2004 he served as Senior Executive Vice President of the Naval Vessels Business Unit. He is also a Member of the Board of Directors of Naviris, a joint venture between Fincantieri SpA and Naval Group.
Also read: SEA Europe backs EC’s maritime industry strategy
Maritime industry at a crossroads
In his first statement as Chairman, Maestrini expressed his commitment to reinforcing SEA Europe’s role in advancing Europe’s maritime industry, particularly with regard to the forthcoming EU Industrial Maritime Strategy: ‘Europe’s maritime technology industry stands at the crossroads of both immense opportunities and significant challenges.’
‘SEA Europe and its member associations and companies have successfully elevated the profile of shipyards and maritime equipment manufacturers as strategic industries for Europe,’ adds Maestrini. ‘Thanks to these efforts, the European Union has committed to delivering an Industrial Maritime Strategy. As Chairman, I am determined to build on these achievements, ensuring that SEA Europe plays a pivotal role in shaping and implementing this strategy. We will focus on leveraging the exceptional innovation and capabilities of the European maritime technology industry, spanning both the civil and naval sectors, to drive competitiveness and sustainability.’
Maestrini’s election marks an exciting new chapter in SEA Europe’s mission to strengthen the competitiveness and global leadership of European maritime industries.
Picture by SEA Europe.
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