GTD Solution, the Maersk division behind blockchain technology platform TradeLens, has announced a transition in the CEO role.
After a career spanning more than three decades in shipping and logistics, current CEO Mike White will be replaced by incoming CEO Kim Spalding.
Ms Spalding will take office on 4 April, bringing a background in the tech and start-up industry into the position.
Vincent Clerc, CEO, Ocean & Logistics at Maersk said Ms Spalding has over 20 years’ experience with major companies and start-up ventures, where she led in product innovation.
“After a successful ramp-up where several industry leaders have joined TradeLens, the focus now shifts towards enhancing the customer experience and monetising the platform,” he said.
For the past six years, Ms Spalding has been general manager and product leader for local business advertising and emerging markets at Google.
Between 2008 and 2015, Ms Spalding also held several leadership roles at Starbucks, including vice president of operations.
“Kim’s track record and CV speaks for itself, and we consider her as the evident candidate to take over the baton,” Mr Clerc said.
Retiring at the end of April, Mr White built his career at Maersk and P&O Nedlloyd which he joined in 1990.
Prior to becoming CEO of GTD Solutions and TradeLens, he served for eight years as president of Maersk’s liner business in North America.
Mr White has helmed the TradeLens journey over the past four years, from its inception as a collaboration between Maersk and IBM to an open and neutral supply chain platform.
“I’d like to thank Mike for his contribution to the success of Maersk and wish him good health and a long and happy retirement,” Mr Clerc said.
“I look forward to welcoming Kim to the team next month.”
