Wilhelmsen Ship Management announced the retirement of Carl Schou after 19 years of service, including 16 years as CEO. Haakon Lenz, currently serving as Chief Operating Officer, will assume the role of CEO on 1 January 2025.
During his time at the helm, Carl Schou played a pivotal role in transforming Wilhelmsen Ship Management into a respected global leader, enhancing its reputation as a forward-thinking, responsible, and reliable ship manager. Schou emphasized the critical role of ship management in adapting to new regulations and the growing focus on decarbonization.
We have made significant strides in modernising ship operations, prioritising safety for our seafarers, protecting the environment and enhancing overall efficiency. This is a long-term journey for the entire industry, and I am proud that Wilhelmsen Ship Management has been at the forefront together with our customers.
Schou voiced confidence that Ship Management would continue to prosper under Haakon’s leadership. Looking back on his time at Wilhelmsen, he expressed pride in leading a talented team for almost 20 years, crediting their success to a strong people-focused culture and ethical practices. In a previous interview with SAFETY4SEA, Schou emphasized the importance of competence in the industry’s sustainability, stressing the need to collaborate in creating a safe, healthy, and secure environment for those onboard, going beyond regulatory requirements.
Haakon Lenz, a seasoned maritime leader with extensive experience across various operational and technical functions, is poised to lead Wilhelmsen Ship Management into this next chapter. “I look forward to working closely with our talented team. Together, we’ll continue our focus on operational excellence, sustainability, and growth— always putting people at the core of what we do as we support our customers in the challenges ahead.”, he said.
As Haakon Lenz takes on his new role as CEO of Ship Management 1 January, Carl Schou will continue to support Haakon in the capacity of senior advisor for a period of six months
In 2025, the company will also celebrate 50 years of delivering services under Wilhelmsen group ownership. Building on the group’s maritime legacy and reputation, Lenz and his team will remain focused on delivering high-quality ship management services.
