New MD Appointed for Damen Shiprepair in Sweden and France

Damen Shiprepair Götaverken aims to be the best within the Nordic countries, according to its new strategy. As part of this focus, Ms Monica Svenner has been appointed as the new MD. Ms Svenner has wide industrial experience as MD for several international companies, such as Stena Recycling and Atlas Copco.

She is the first woman to take an MD post within the ship repair industry and as a Gothenburger she has a burning ambition for her new company.

The current MD, Mr Jos Goris, is very pleased with the choice of his successor: “Monica has extensive experience in leadership and business development within a variety of organizations and industries, particularly within heavy industry. This means that she can bring new approaches and innovation, which is extremely positive for Damen Shiprepair Götaverken. It is also particularly good having an MD from Gothenburg who is internationally respected for her experience, the perfect mix.”

Ms Svenner sees great development potential in Damen Shiprepair Götaverken and she accepted the assignment with excitement and enthusiasm. Her main driving forces are improving businesses, developing and managing organizations and helping people to move forward.

In her own words: “Profitability is A to Z, but developing a company also requires modern leadership, development of the employee’s competence and an efficient organization to provide all the services that the market requires. This will give increased efficiency and, in the long term, a stronger trademark.”

Damen Shiprepair Götaverken currently has 130 employees and a turnover of 300 MSEK. During the last five years, the company has had a positive result trend, with a minor exception in 2011 due to market recession. The Götaverken company was founded as early as 1841. Since the shipyard reopened in 1993 – with 70 employees – more than 1,000 assignments have been performed, including repairs, maintenance and reconstruction of various types of vessels.

MrGoris will move on to become the MD for the newly acquired French shiprepair facility Damen Shiprepair Brest. Damen took over the operations of this French yard, formerly known as ‘Sobrena’,three months ago. Damen Shiprepair Brest employs 210 workers and operates 3 large graven dry docks of which the largest measures 420 m x 80 m.

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Shipbuilding Tribune Staff, June 19, 2012; Image: damen