Pacific International Lines (PIL) announced on Friday (Jul 1) that it has appointed a new chief executive officer, Lars Kastrup, effective on Jul 1.

Prior to his new role, Kastrup has been PIL’s co-president and executive director since March 2021.

Kastrup is no stranger to the new leadership role, having been the chief executive officer of Neptune Orient Lines/APL sometime in the over 30 years he spent in the shipping industry. He has also undertaken several senior positions in CMA CGM and Maersk.

“Since Lars joined us in July 2020, first as senior advisor followed by co-president and executive director, he has kick-started various commercial and operational initiatives which have enabled the company to benefit from the strong market,” said Teo Siong Seng, executive chairman of PIL.

“He was instrumental in the restructuring, streamlining and optimisation of our trade network and vessel deployment aimed at transforming PIL into a strong and efficient shipping line,” Teo added.

“Looking ahead, the board and I are confident that Lars will be able to continue to drive improvements at PIL which would provide to us a sturdy shield against possible volatilities arising from future industry cycles.” 

GET BT IN YOUR INBOX DAILY

Start and end each day with the latest news stories and analyses delivered straight to your inbox.

Sign UpVIEW ALL

Separately, the shipping firm also announced the retirement of its co-president and executive director, Gan Chee Yen.

Gan joined PIL as senior advisor in July 2020 and during his time at PIL, helped the company strengthen key aspects of its business in capital and financial structure, governance, risk management and compliance framework, and human capital strategy, said Teo.