TOWLINES (December 2022)

The award is in recognition of his achievements, working methods and contributions to the Dutch maritime sector, in particular with Damen Shipyards, which he took over from his father and uncle in 1969 and has grown from one yard then to around 70 companies today. He also holds a number of other positions, including Honorary Consul of Mexico. Kommer has four children, all of whom are active within the company, including CEO Arnout Damen.

Early in November the next stage in the takeover process of Boskalis Westminster N.V. by HAL Holding N.V. took place, with the last day of trading of Boskalis shares on Euronext Amsterdam.

The delisting of the Dutch maritime services provider follows a public listing of more than half a century and Boskalis will continue as a private company with its focus on activities including towage and salvage services remaining unchanged. The company says it will concentrate on constructing innovative infrastructure, facilitating energy transition and protecting people and nature from the effects of climate change.

Recovery and recycling of 28,413 tonnes of waste from Maersk Honam has been completed four years after the container ship suffered a fire among its cargo in the Arabian Sea.

Dutch maritime recycling specialist Sea2Cradle’s involvement included being appointed as experts for the P&I Club, overseeing excavation and discharge of debris, and its transport to a designated yard for cleaning and subsequent disposal. Addressing risk at all stages of the process and protecting the vessel owner from any short and long-term liabilities were paramount, including ensuring compliance with local, international and EU regulations.

Copenhagen-based Svitzer has appointed Sabrina Weymiens to the newly created role of Head of Transformation.

Svitzer describes the role as being to spearhead its transformation journey and keep the company on track as it tackles decarbonisation and delivers superior customer service. Sabrina was previously Head of Commercial Innovation and prior to that worked for Maersk Growth. Earlier still and outside of the shipping industry she held strategic innovation roles at Implement Consulting and Johnson & Johnson, among others. Her role will include designing and applying principles, methods, approaches and governance of Svitzer’s transformation journey.