Michael Hansen has been appointed as President and CEO of DFDS, effective no later than 1 July 2026 to succeed Torben Carlsen.
This follows a CEO succession process initiated on 6 November 2025 to introduce fresh perspectives for improving business and financial performance. The short-term focus is on enhancing financial results, while long-term goals include optimising operations and pursuing organic growth leveraging DFDS’s strengths in customer service and workforce capabilities.
Hansen brings extensive global executive experience from shipping, transport, and industrial sectors. At Hempel, he led a strategic transformation improving financial performance, cash flow, and operational scalability. Previously, he held senior roles at A.P. Moller – Maersk across various regions, including CEO of Seago Line and Global Head of Sales for Maersk Line. His career spans management positions in Mexico, Spain, and New Zealand.
DFDS operates a transport network in and around Europe, generating an annual revenue of DKK 30bn and employing 16,500 full-time staff. The company transports goods via ferry, road, and rail, offering related logistics solutions, and serves car and foot passengers on short sea and overnight routes. Founded in 1866 and headquartered in Copenhagen,
DFDS is scheduled to publish its Annual Report 2025 and Q4 2025 review on Thursday, 19 February 2026.
Claus V. Hemmingsen shared “I am very pleased to welcome Michael Hansen to DFDS. Michael brings new perspectives and experiences to lead the company’s ongoing transition. The clear short-term task is to lift financial performance. The longer-term task is to continue to unlock network value through optimisation of operations and organic growth on the back of DFDS’ enduring strengths, not least our highly regarded customer offerings and service levels as well as our very capable people.”
Michael Hansen shared “I am looking very much forward to joining DFDS and the opportunity to lead the ongoing transition to profitable growth. I am passionate about engaging and empowering people to deliver commercial and financial performance and equally passionate about moving sustainability forward. DFDS has an impressive legacy but is currently challenged in some areas. By working together and leveraging the strong network we can unlock the full potential”.
