Danish Shipping climate, environment & safety director Maria Skipper Schwenn is leaving after 13 years.
The policy expert, a former political assistant, is seeking new challenges, the shipowners’ organisation said.
An outspoken critic of what she saw as inadequate regulatory measures to tackle decarbonisation in shipping, her role has included taking on issues such as pirate attacks on Danish vessels.
Skipper Schwenn said: “Over some time, I have slowly been able to feel the need for a change, but also a need to stop and reflect.”
During her stint at Danish Shipping, she became a mother, meaning her days became more than ordinarily busy.
“The job at Danish Shipping has been hugely enriching and all worth it, but now I am ready to use my experience … in a new and exciting place. It is not an easy decision, but the right one,” she added.
Skipper Schwenn has been promoted three times at the organisation down the years.
She has been a part of Danish Shipping’s management for the past nine of them.
Chief executive Anne Steffensen said the outgoing director leaves big shoes to fill.
“I fully respect Maria’s decision. Throughout all the years at Danish Shipping, Maria has delivered a great and dedicated effort and plenty of results and has, if anyone, been our face on climate, environment and safety,” Steffensen added.
“Both members and business partners can nod in recognition of that. I wish Maria all the best in the future.”
The organisation has begun a recruitment process to find a successor.
