Sveinung Stohle's appointment as deputy chief executive of Greek shipowner Maria Angelicoussis' vast mixed-fleet group has prompted a wealth of discussion about the incoming executive and the company's future direction.
Confirmation on Tuesday — in a market rife with speculation after the Hoegh LNG Holdings chief executive announced his resignation — that Stohle would be taking on the number two role at Greece’s largest shipowner sparked a stream of conversations.
The appointment appears to have surprised many in shipping, who described themselves as "stunned" and "fascinated".
Stohle is best known in LNG circles, where he has worked with TotalEnergies, Nigeria LNG, Golar LNG and Hoegh LNG.
Hoegh LNG has made floating storage and regasification units its speciality, giving the outgoing chief executive an even more niche focus within the LNG industry.
Experience
Some observers have asked how an LNG specialist with little or no tanker and bulk carrier experience can tackle the Angelicoussis Group's vast fleet of 157 vessels.
Others have countered that there are plenty of experienced personnel in the company to handle these sectors.
They point to Stohle's experience of working with a family-owned, family-run concern at Hoegh LNG as something he would have a deep understanding of and which could translate well to the ultra-private Angelicoussis Group.
But they indicated that the shift to Greece and the larger shipowning empire would be a "big lifestyle change" for Stohle, who turns 63 in December.
Those who know him well in Norway describe him as "incredibly analytical", "smart" and someone who "truly loves his job".
In his business dealings he is said to be "very humble" and "phenomenally professional". Several spoke of his ability to continue to deliver even in tough personal circumstances.
Stohle is known for being somewhat inscrutable — or as one LNG player put it, "good at being unemotional". Another referenced what he said is his sometimes-glimpsed and winning "film star grin".
"He knows what to say and what not to say," said another old associate and former colleague. "He's everything I'm not."
The appointment led some observers to comment that the Angelicoussis Group is becoming more corporate since Angelicoussis stepped into the top job on the sudden death of her father, John, in April 2021.
Some pointed to Stohle's knowledge of the capital markets, suggesting his appointment could be a sign the company is being lined up for a public listing.
Others rubbished this, but said his experience with financiers could help the group move forward as the industry transitions to a low-carbon future.
Group chief executive Angelicoussis said Stohle's experience will add "strength, depth and quality" to the senior management team.
"I am looking forward to working closely with Sveinung in relation to the many near-term transitional challenges and opportunities in our industry," she added.
