Integrated logistics company A.P. Moller–Maersk (Maersk) has appointed Ditlev Blicher as its new Regional President for North America, effective Jan. 1, 2026. The move underscores Maersk’s continued focus on strengthening regional leadership as it expands its end-to-end logistics and supply chain capabilities in one of its most strategically important markets.
Blicher will assume responsibility for Maersk’s North American operations after serving as the company’s Regional President for Asia Pacific since 2023. During his tenure in Asia Pacific, Blicher led large-scale operational and commercial initiatives aimed at improving service reliability, customer experience, and integration across Maersk’s ocean, air, inland, and logistics offerings.
Extensive Global Logistics Leadership Experience
A seasoned logistics industry executive, Blicher joined Maersk in 2020, bringing decades of global experience in freight forwarding, operations, and general management. Prior to joining Maersk, he served as APA CEO at DB Schenker, where he oversaw regional growth and operational performance.
Earlier in his career, Blicher held senior leadership roles at UTi Worldwide, including President of Asia Pacific and Europe for Freight Forwarding, and at CEVA Logistics, where he served as Executive Vice President – Group Operations. His background spans multiple regions and transport modes, aligning closely with Maersk’s integrated logistics strategy.
Maersk said Blicher’s deep operational expertise and international leadership experience will be instrumental as the company continues to scale its full-suite logistics solutions across North America, including ocean shipping, inland transportation, warehousing, and supply chain management.
Leadership Transition in North America and IMEA Region
As part of the leadership transition, Charles van der Steene, who has served as Maersk’s Regional President for North America since January 2024, will take on the role of Managing Director for the company’s India, Middle East and Africa (IMEA) region.
Van der Steene brings significant experience in emerging and complex markets. He previously served as Regional Managing Director for Damco from 2016 to 2019, before the freight forwarding company merged with Maersk in 2019. In his new role, he will oversee Maersk’s continued growth and integration efforts across the IMEA region.
Focus on Growth and Operational Excellence
Commenting on his appointment, Blicher highlighted his focus on building on existing momentum in the North American market.
“I’m looking forward to working with our talented team in North America to build on the progress they’ve made as we’ve evolved into a full-suite logistics provider,” Blicher said. “Our focus will be on driving sustainable growth and strengthening operational excellence to deliver a best-in-class experience for our customers.”
Maersk said the leadership changes reflect its broader strategy to align regional leadership with its transformation into an integrated logistics company, offering seamless, end-to-end supply chain solutions for global customers.