DNV appoints Knut Ørbeck-Nilssen to head group temporarily, with CEO on medical leave

Knut Ørbeck-Nilssen will take on the role of interim DNV group president and chief executive while Remi Eriksen is on leave to undergo cancer treatment.

In a statement on its website, DNV said its group president and chief executive Remi Eriksen was diagnosed with cancer in January 2026.

"Remi is optimistic that he will fully recover. He will begin treatment soon and will therefore step away from his position in DNV for a few months," the statement said. 

In Mr Eriksen’s absence, the DNV Board of Directors has appointed Knut Ørbeck-Nilssen to serve as interim DNV group president and chief executive from 1 February 2026 – 31 August 2026. Cristina Saenz de Santa Maria will be interim chief executive for maritime during this period.

“On behalf of the Board of Directors of DNV, I want to extend our warmest wishes to Remi for strength, stamina, and a good recovery. We look forward to welcoming him back when he is recovered,” DNV Board of Directors chair Fredrik Baksaas said.  

“It’s with great respect and humility that I step in for Remi during his absence. DNV’s strategy and commitments remain unchanged, and we will continue to deliver for our customers and partners without interruption,” Mr Ørbeck-Nilssen said.