New CEO and structure for Damen

(Posted on 23/12/19)

As of January 1, Arnout Damen will become the new CEO of Damen Shipyards Group. At the same time, the shipbuilding company is switching to a divisional structure to serve the market more effectively and efficiently.

Damen Shipyards Group operates 36 shipbuilding and repair yards, employing 12,000 people worldwide. Damen has delivered more than 6,500 vessels in more than 100 countries and delivers around 175 vessels annually to customers worldwide. Based on its unique, standardised ship-design concept Damen is able to guarantee consistent quality.

Arnout Damen takes over from René Berkvens, who has been the CEO of Damen Shipyards Group for more than thirteen years. "We are extremely indebted to René for his commitment as our company's top executive," said Kommer Damen. “Under his leadership, Damen has grown into a globally operating, leading player. We are therefore pleased that he continues to use his knowledge, network and experience for the company in preparation for his accession to the Supervisory Board."

Arnout Damen has been preparing for the move to CEO for many years. Over the past nine years he has been a member of the group’s Executive Board, responsible for operations and commercial affairs.

In his new position as CEO, his first priority is the further implementation of the divisional structure. “Preparations for this have been going on for several months. We will be officially switching from 1 January," explains Arnout. “Damen is known as an innovative and dynamic company that works very closely with its clients. We would like to maintain this. With the growth of recent years, the switch to a divisional structure has become logical to remain close to the various markets and to further expand our leading position in the fields of quality, digitalisation and sustainability. ”

In his position as Chief Commercial Officer, Arnout Damen will be succeeded on January 1 by Jan-Wim Dekker.