DFDS has appointed Michael Hansen as President & CEO, effective no later than 1 July 2026. He succeeds Torben Carlsen, who is expected to step down on the same date.
Board perspective
Chair Claus V. Hemmingsen said the short-term priority is to improve financial performance, while the longer-term focus remains on unlocking network value through operational optimisation and organic growth, building on DFDS’ customer offering, service levels and people.
Background and mandate
Michael Hansen is a global executive with extensive leadership experience in shipping, transport, and industrial businesses. As President & CEO of Hempel, he has led a strategic transformation that has lifted financial performance, strengthened cash flow, and improved operational scalability. Prior to Hempel, he spent nearly two decades with A.P. Moller – Maersk, holding senior management roles across Europe, Latin America, and Oceania, including CEO of Seago Line and Global Head of Sales for Maersk Line.
