Ludwig Criel joins V. as Non-Executive Director

V.Group (“V.”), the global ship manager and marine services provider, is pleased to announce that Ludwig Criel has joined the Board as Non-Executive Director.

Mr. Criel brings a wealth of experience to V., having built a distinguished career in the maritime industry. With many years of leadership experience across global markets, he has a proven track record of driving strategic growth and fostering operational excellence. He is currently Chairman of the Royal Belgian Shipowners’ Association (RBSA), a role he has held since 2016.

Commenting on the appointment, René Kofod-Olsen, Group Chief Executive Officer of V., said:”We are delighted to welcome Ludwig to the Board of V. His deep understanding of the maritime sector, coupled with his strategic insight and governance expertise, will undoubtedly contribute to strengthening our position as a global industry leader. We look forward to benefiting from his guidance as we continue to deliver exceptional services to our customers worldwide.”

Mr. Criel previously served in key executive positions, including since 1991 as a Director of CMB, one of the oldest and biggest shipowning companies in Antwerp, and of Exmar since its listing in 2003. He is a member of the board of the Wah Kwong Shipping Group in Hong Kong, having previously been Managing Director from 1999 to 2004.

His comprehensive maritime expertise aligns perfectly with V.’s mission to shape the future of our industry through innovation and sustainability.

Upon his appointment Ludwig Criel said:

“I am pleased to be joining V. at such an exciting time in its journey. The company’s dedication to providing unparalleled value to its customers and partners resonates deeply with my own professional ethos. I look forward to contributing to its continued success.”

In addition to the new Board appointment, V. has made two further senior appointments:

• Robert Desai assumes the role of Chief Executive Officer of V.Ships, V.’s ship management arm. With his deep knowledge of the industry and the V.Ships organisation, and his close relationships with many of its customers, Mr. Desai is a natural fit for his new role and provides strength through stability for V.Ships. Until his recent appointment he served as CEO of V.Services and Chief Commercial Officer.
• Petter Traaholt takes on the role of Chief Executive Officer of V.Services, which provides a broad range of marine services to the shipping industry. This is in addition to his role as Group Chief Financial Officer of V. Mr. Traaholt brings a longstanding track record of delivering value for customers across a range of sectors in the maritime space, and a deep knowledge of the V.Services companies. He will work closely with the strong and dedicated leadership teams of these services businesses as they continue accelerating their strategic journeys in the service of our customers.

René Kofod-Olsen, who continues as Chief Executive Officer of V.Group with overall responsibility for leading the Group and, alongside the Board of Directors, ensuring the delivery of the company’s strategy, commented;

“These appointments reinforce V.Group’s commitment to attracting and promoting world-class talent to its senior leadership team, ensuring robust governance and the delivery of exceptional services to the global maritime community.”