People
Hempel CEO Michael Hansen to join European ferry leader DFDS
Hansen will continue to lead Hempel until a successor is appointed
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By ICN Bureau | January 14, 2026
Michael Hansen, Group President and CEO of Hempel, has announced his resignation after accepting the role of President and CEO at DFDS, a leading European ferry and logistics company with more than 16,000 employees.
Hansen will continue to lead Hempel, alongside the Executive Group Management team, until a successor is appointed, with his departure effective no later than June 30, 2026.
Commenting on the move, Richard Sand, Chair of Hempel’s Board, said: "On behalf of the Board, I want to express my appreciation to Michael for his strong leadership and the significant contribution he has made to Hempel over the nine years he has served the company.
"Through strong collaboration between the Board, the Executive Group Management team, and the entire organisation, Hempel has during Michael’s tenure as CEO strengthened its strategic position and financial performance considerably."
Sand added: "The Board has full confidence in Michael’s and the management team’s continued ability to ensure continued execution of our strategic priorities during this transition. Hempel remains dedicated to its strategy, and fully focused on delivering value for our customers and stakeholders."
Reflecting on his time at Hempel, Hansen said: "It is an honour to serve as CEO of Hempel and to work alongside such talented colleagues across the organisation. I am immensely proud of what we have achieved together and remain fully committed to leading the business until a successor is in place.
"I want to thank the Board of Hempel A/S for their continued unwavering support and all my colleagues for their dedication and collaboration. Hempel stands on a strong foundation, and I am confident that the company will continue to thrive."
