President of Palfinger Marine steps down

Formerly CEO of Harding Safety, Mr Bekkenes had been part of a leadership-sharing arrangement in Palfinger Marine prior to taking up the role of president, following the acquisition of Harding in 2016.

Mr Bekkenes said: “With the strengths that lie within the company, both in terms of personnel and products, Palfinger Marine is very well positioned to be the preferred supplier of cranes, lifesaving equipment and winches for vessels and installations worldwide.

“Furthermore, the wide range of segments that we cover mean that the company is more prepared than ever before to cater for variations in activities between the different markets we operate in.

“With Palfinger Marine in such a position, I feel that the time is right for me to step down and seek new challenges. I’m incredibly grateful for the time I’ve had in the company and for all the great colleagues who I’ve been lucky enough to work and cooperate with.”

Mr Bekkenes has spent most of his time as president amalgamating and integrating Palfinger Marine’s acquisitions in order to create one strong supplier of deck equipment.

In a statement, Herbert Ortner, the CEO of Palfinger Marine, said he offered his sincerest thanks to Styrk for his great contribution and would like to wish him all the best in his future endeavours.

By Rebecca Jeffrey