Coles to leave Wallem

(Posted on 19/01/21)

The board of Wallem Group have announced that Chief Executive Frank Coles has resigned and will be leaving the Wallem Group shortly.

Wallem Group is a leading provider of technology driven maritime solutions, offering services supporting the complete lifecycle of a vessel from newbuilding supervision to end-of-life recycling guidance. Wallem’s extensive portfolio includes asset management, crewing, training, ship management, safety and compliance management and agency services.

In a statement, the company said:

“As many will be aware Frank has been very active in highlighting the plight of seafarers during the Covid-19 pandemic and now wishes to become more involved in promoting their welfare, as well as pursuing other opportunities.

During his two and half years at Wallem Frank has initiated many changes aimed at enhancing customer service, obtaining operational efficiencies and improving safety. We wish Frank success for the future.

On an interim basis and until further notice, we are also pleased to announce that John Kaare Aune, Managing Director of Wallem Shipmangement Limited, will take over Frank’s role as CEO of Wallem Group Limited.”

Wallem Chairman Nigel Hill says, “We would like to thank Frank for his drive and commitment over the past two and a half years. The events of the past twelve months have brought the daily lives and work of seafarers into sharp focus and we wish him well in his new endeavours on their behalf. The Wallem team will continue the focus on enhancing our products by the use of technology and providing our partners and clients first class service.”

Frank Coles says, “I am proud of the changes I have brought to Wallem and for the advances we have made. After all these years in the maritime industry I would now like to focus on putting something back and on the welfare and rights of seafarers.”

As one of the largest and most experienced solutions providers globally, Wallem offers world-class support to shipowners by bringing its customer-centric and transparent approach to all aspects of fleet operation. Wallem combines technology and forward-thinking to deliver on safety, technical, and commercial performance without compromise. Wallem believes in collaboration to foster innovation in meeting future needs.

Wallem operates globally with a shore-based team of 800+ and 7,000 highly qualified seafarers, serving nearly all vessel segments.