Danish maritime investment manager European Maritime Finance has named Peter Kubicki as chief executive officer, part of a wider reshuffle of its leadership team that also sees Stephen Schueler appointed chairman of the board, according to a company announcement reported by Splash247. The Copenhagen-based firm, which advises and manages about $2.1 billion in maritime assets and commitments, said the changes are aimed at strengthening its governance, compliance and risk management framework.
New Leadership Line-up
The four appointments cover key roles in the company's governance structure. Kubicki, who was already involved with EMF, brings a background in banking, financial services and regulated investment management. He takes over from Torben Degn, who was appointed CEO last year as reported by Splash; the latest release did not provide details on Degn's departure.
Stephen Schueler has more than 30 years of senior leadership experience, including roles at Maersk, where he served as chief commercial officer, member of the executive board, and chief executive officer of Safmarine. His appointment as chairman adds significant shipping industry expertise to the board.
Rikke Stoltz has been appointed as a board member. She spent 13 years with Maersk and was an early investor in offshore wind vessel owner Cadeler. Martin Almdal, co-founder of EMF, moved to vice chairman after being involved in building the company's investment platform and investor relationships.
| Role | Name | Background Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Chief Executive Officer | Peter Kubicki | Banking, financial services, regulated investment management |
| Chairman of the Board | Stephen Schueler | 30+ years at Maersk, CCO, exec board, CEO of Safmarine |
| Board Member | Rikke Stoltz | 13 years at Maersk, early investor in Cadeler |
| Vice Chairman | Martin Almdal | Co-founder of EMF, built investment platform |
Governance and Asset Focus
EMF said the appointments follow a period of growth and are part of a broader strengthening of its governance, compliance, and risk management framework. The investment manager focuses on investments across tanker, car carrier and ammonia/LPG vessel segments. The reshuffle is intended to enhance oversight as the firm continues to manage its $2.1 billion asset base.
Implications for Maritime Finance
The move signals a push toward more structured governance at a time when shipping finance faces increasing regulatory and compliance demands. For investors and treasury professionals tracking maritime asset managers, the appointment of executives with deep industry ties—such as Schueler's Maersk pedigree and Stoltz's Cadeler involvement—suggests EMF is prioritizing sector expertise at the board level. The retention of co-founder Almdal as vice chairman provides continuity in investor relations and strategic direction.
While the specific cost-of-capital or FX implications are not detailed in the source, the governance overhaul at a firm of this size is likely to affect how lenders and insurance partners view its risk profile. Maritime finance professionals will monitor whether the new team drives further asset growth or changes in investment strategy.
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