The move is seen as a logical transformation with Arnout Damen using the last few years as preparation for the post of CEO; he has been a member of the group’s Executive Board for the past nine years, responsible for operations and commercial affairs. Jan-Wim Dekker succeeds Arnout Damen as Chief Commercial Officer. Berkvens now moves to the Group’s Supervisory Board.

"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."

A decision has been made to switch Damen Shipyards Group to a divisional structure in order to serve the market more effectively and efficiently. The first priority for the new CEO is the implementation of the new 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.”