Ex-Pacific Basin man Frank Coles is the new CEO of shipmanager Wallem Group.
He will replace outgoing boss Simon Doughty, who announced his decision to step down earlier this year.
The handover will take place at the end of October.
Coles, a former lawyer, joined Pacific Basin in 1995 as operations director for 50 ships.
By this year he was president of Transas Group after it was acquired by Wartsila.
Wallem chairman Nigel Hill said: “On behalf of the board of directors, I would like to express our gratitude to Simon for his years of service to Wallem and for his excellent leadership of the group over the past seven years.
"The shipping services sector is grappling with a wide range of challenges and opportunities at present. We are confident that we have found the right person to ensure that Wallem stays in the forefront of delivering first class maritime solutions to its customers, as it has done throughout its long history.”
Doughty's decision was made due to a wish to leave Hong Kong and return home to be with his daughters and ageing parents.
He said: “Wallem has a strong management team and outstanding employees who are committed to providing the best possible customer experience.
"I am pleased that Frank has agreed to lead the company going forward. His vast experience will complement and strengthen that of the existing Wallem team and enable them to meet the future needs of the maritime services business."
Coles added: “The opportunity to lead and help grow a prestigious and diversified company like Wallem was something I could not pass up.
"With the increased industry focus on efficiency, safety and the environment, providing quality shipping services, crews and technical support is going to be critical."
