Danish ro-ro and ropax giant DFDS has started the hunt for a new finance chief after the resignation of Karina Deacon.
The Copenhagen-listed shipowner said the chief financial officer will leave no later than the end of June next year.
The company added that she wants to pursue a non-executive career.
Deacon took on the role at the start of 2020, and she will aim to ensure continuity and a smooth transition to the new CFO.
“DFDS is on the brink of entering a new extended strategy period towards 2030,” Deacon said. “This has been a catalyst to reflect on my future and I will be stepping down ahead of this period and change my focus to contributing through board positions.
“I have greatly enjoyed my four years with DFDS. It’s a dynamic company, always on the move, with great people.”
Deacon filled the role vacated by Torben Carlsen, when he became chief executive.
“I would like to thank Karina for being my trusted colleague and a highly appreciated management team member through the last four years,” Carlsen said.
“Karina has been key in building a more solid and efficient DFDS and hands over an organisation that is strongly positioned for the future.”
Experience finance executive
Before joining DFDS, Deacon held various management, finance and accounting roles at PWC and ISS, and positions as group CFO at Landic Property, Saxo Bank and most recently Nilfisk.
She has guided DFDS safely through a period impacted by significant headwinds from Brexit to Covid-19 and the energy crisis last year, according to DFDS chairman Claus Hemmingsen.
“Karina hands over a DFDS in good shape with solid earnings as we are about to kick off a new strategy period,” Hemmingsen said. “I fully respect her decision to step down to change track.
“The board and I look forward to bringing on a new CFO to steer DFDS through the coming strategy period.”
