Maersk announced on Monday that Soren Toft resigned from his role as Chief Operating Officer with immediate effect. Toft left the company to pursue a new professional opportunity. Given Maersk’s brief statements and Toft’s sudden departure, industry experts assume he secured a high-level position with a major competitor.
In a recent interview, Toft expressed immense satisfaction with his tenure at Maersk. However, he also emphasized his desire to test himself in a new corporate role. “I leave Maersk happy and smiling,” Toft stated.
Toft became Maersk COO in 2014, taking charge of global liner operations after serving as Network Planning Manager. During his tenure, he played a critical role in integrating the German carrier Hamburg Süd into the group. Furthermore, he spear-headed Maersk’s strategic search for sustainable alternative fuels.
According to reports from Shipping Watch, Toft will replace Diego Aponte as CEO of Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC). The Swiss-Italian ocean carrier currently ranks as the world’s second-largest container line. The shipping industry expects an official announcement regarding this appointment next week.
In the meantime, Maersk Group CEO Soren Skou will temporarily assume the COO responsibilities. The experienced executive will manage global operations while the board searches for Toft’s permanent successor.
