After replacing outgoing chief executive Frank Coles in early 2021, Mr Aune impressed with his composure during what the company called a challenging year for the maritime industry
John-Kaare Aune has been appointed chief executive at Wallem Group after a stint as interim chief executive.
Having joined Wallem in 2019 as managing director, shipmanagement, Mr Aune took over as Group chief executive on an interim basis in January 2021 following the resignation of Frank Coles.
Wallem said Mr Aune’s appointment as permanent chief executive, effective from 1 October 2021, "recognises his hard work and commitment in overseeing Wallem’s operations during what has been a challenging year for the maritime industry".
Wallem Chairman Nigel Hill commented “We are very pleased to confirm John-Kaare’s appointment to the permanent CEO role and the wealth of experience that he brings. The past few months have been challenging to everyone in the shipping industry and we have been very impressed with the calm and professional manner in which he has performed throughout his stewardship of the Wallem Group as interim CEO. We are confident that John-Kaare will take the Wallem Group forward and deliver the excellent safety and environment-focused customer service that Wallem’s clients demand and the sustainable, long term growth and profitability that matches the vision of Wallem’s shareholders.”
Mr Aune said, “I am excited and honoured to have the opportunity to lead Wallem as the Group’s CEO. I look forward to continuing the journey with our esteemed colleagues, leadership team and the board of directors of advancing Wallem for the future needs of our clients, employees, environment, and community. Together we will be concentrating on the growth of Wallem by having a sharp focus on delivering excellent client-service to our partners and strengthening our position as one of the leading providers of maritime services. By combining Wallem’s broad industry experience with the application of new technologies, we will be in excellent stead to support our partners in achieving sustainable value and assist them in our transition towards decarbonisation in the years to come.”
Before joining Wallem, Mr Aune worked as Regional Director, Asia Pacific at the Cayman Registry, playing a key role in the growth of its global commercial activities. He had previously worked at the Norwegian Maritime Directorate. He is a naval architect and holds a degree from the University of Newcastle upon Tyne.
© 2024 Riviera Maritime Media Ltd.