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Safmarine returns to roots, moves HQ to SA

11 May 2016

International container carrier focused on trade to and from Africa, West and Central Asia, Safmarine will move its head office to Cape Town, South Africa, thereby returning to its roots. Established in South Africa in 1946, Safmarine was acquired by Maersk Line in 1999. Safmarine's head office has been located in Copenhagen since 2012.

David Williams

“Safmarine has a clear strategy and a strong outlook. And Africa is core to the Safmarine strategy. Therefore, it is an obvious choice to move Safmarine’s head office to Cape Town in South Africa,” says Vincent Clerc, chief commercial officer of Maersk Line.

A need for strong local coordination

Safmarine’s CEO, David Williams, will not only relocate with the head office but also take over the position as Maersk Line’s regional manager for Africa (sub-Saharan).

“We have two strong brands in Africa: Safmarine and Maersk Line. In order for them to continue to be successful, we need to strengthen the local coordination. We believe this can best happen under one leadership team based in the region,” says Clerc.

Maersk Line expects the move to be completed by the end of 2016. However, David Williams will take over as regional manager for Africa on 1 August 2016, and will take over from Ivan Heesom-Green.

“We are committed to Africa. We want to continue to support the development of its emerging economies. And in doing so open markets and provide opportunities for current and new customers,” Clerc concludes.