Rickmers-Linie Announces Wouter Huybrechts as President & CEO

Rickmers-Linie, the Hamburg-based specialist for liner services in breakbulk, heavy lift and project shipping, has appointed Wouter Huybrechts as new President & CEO of Rickmers-Linie (America) Inc.

Mr Huybrechts joined Rickmers-Linie in 1992 as a member of the sales and marketing team when the company established a subsidiary in Belgium. He became General Manager Sales in 2001 and was appointed Managing Director of Rickmers-Linie Belgium in 2005, a position he retains alongside his new role.

As President and CEO of Rickmers-Linie (America) Inc, Mr Huybrechts will manage and coordinate the development of Rickmers-Linie’s US organization, driving its expansion throughout the Americas and further enhancing customer relations.

Mr Huybrechts started his career in shipping in 1982 after completing his studies in marketing and shipping. His rich and varied experience in breakbulk has been gained through a variety of roles including sales manager for Hansamar in the West African trades and as sales manager for Far East trades for Deutsche Seereederei.

Ulrich Ulrichs, CEO of Rickmers-Linie said: “Wouter Huybrechts has a wealth of experience and expertise in the break bulk and project business. He understands the customers’ needs and knows how to ensure that every member of the Rickmers-Linie team delivers the highest quality service.”

“At the same time I sincerely thank Waldemar Poulsen for his contribution and commitment in building and developing our team in the U.S. We wish Waldemar Poulsen good luck and continued success in all his future endeavors.” Mr Ulrichs continued.

Wouter Huybrechts added: “I am looking forward to this new challenge. I have seen this company develop significantly over the last 23 years and I am delighted to be given the chance to further help this growth continue.”

He took over when current CEO & President Waldemar Poulsen left the company on 18 September.