V.Group, a global provider of ship management and marine support services, has announced the appointment of Graham Westgarth as Chief Executive Officer.
Graham has served on V.Group’s board since September 2018 and will take over from Ian El-Mokadem who has informed the Board of his desire to leave the company.
Graham has a distinguished track-record in the maritime sector, having worked in the industry for almost 50 years. During his career, he has operated across almost all sectors and functions in the industry, with a particular focus on ship management and helping companies achieve operational excellence. Graham has held a range of senior executive roles with companies including GasLog Limited, Teekay Corporation and Maersk UK. He has also occupied a number of industry positions, most notably as Chairman of INTERTANKO, a position he held for five years.
Commenting on the announcement, John Pattullo, Chairman of V.Group, said: “I would like to thank Ian for his significant contribution to V.Group.
Ian oversaw a substantial investment program which delivered new state-of-the-art systems in critical areas such as vessel management, as well as the management and mobilization of seafarers. He has also been instrumental in establishing a Group-wide set of values for our colleagues with safety at the core, which leaves a lasting legacy for our organization.
Reflecting on his departure, Ian El-Mokadem said: "Leading V Group has been a great privilege. It’s a fantastic business, with a great team and hugely valued clients. I wish Graham and my colleagues every success in the future and hope to remain a close friend of the company in which I will retain an interest."