Harry Deans is set to replace David Butters as chief executive of Navigator Holdings in August.

The London-based, New York-listed tanker owner announced the move, effective 22 August, after the close of trading Wednesday.

"I am honored to be given the opportunity to fulfill the role of chief executive officer at Navigator and I look forward to working even more closely with the Navigator management team," Deans said in a statement.

Deans was named a director in November, replacing Spiros Milonas.

He previously served as executive vice president of Nutrien. He was also senior vice president at fertilizer production and distribution company Agrium from 2015 to 2017 and sat on the board of directors of Canpotex Potash Export Company during the same period.

Deans will remain on the board. Butters will stay on as chairman.

"I am delighted that Harry Deans has agreed to join the company as chief executive officer and I look forward to working with him and to continue to grow and develop the company over the coming months and years," Butters said.

"I have been impressed with Harry’s considerable knowledge and understanding of the petrochemical industry since becoming a non-executive director of the company last year, so I am very pleased to pass the chief executive role to a highly capable leader."