Maersk has announced a significant leadership shift that will see Christopher Cook step in as managing director for the UK and Ireland at the start of the new year. Cook, a British national who joined the company as a trainee in 2002, brings more than two decades of global experience across Africa, Europe, the Middle East and India.

Cook has spent the last seven years in the IMEA region, most notably leading the UAE area through a major integration and transformation programme. More recently, he oversaw India, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka, where he advanced long term strategy, strengthened operational capabilities and lifted profitability across the portfolio. Maersk’s European leadership highlights his strong customer orientation and ability to build culture as key assets for the role.

With Cook’s transition, Thomas Theeuwes will take over as managing director for India, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka from 1 January 2026. Theeuwes, who has held positions around the world for nearly twenty years, most recently led the West Africa area. Maersk describes the IBS markets as high potential and strategically vital for its regional growth ambitions.

Executives across the business have positioned the reshuffle as a move that aligns experienced leadership with changing market demands. Both Cook and Theeuwes are credited for their track records in delivering transformation, driving value and strengthening partnerships in complex environments.

As Maersk continues to reinforce its end to end logistics capability, these appointments deepen its leadership bench in two regions central to trade flows, customer expectations and long range strategic planning.

Discover more insights by reading the full article.