Dr. Gaby Bornheim new President of the Association of German Shipowners

The Board of the Association of German Shipowners (VDR) has elected Dr. jur. Gaby Bornheim, Managing Director of Peter Döhle Schiffahrts-KG, as the new President of the Association in its meeting today. This marks the end of Captain Alfred Hartmann’s term, who has led the Association since early 2015. The 74-year-old did not stand for re-election after seven years in this honorary position.

(Hamburg) Lawyer Dr. Bornheim has been jointly responsible for the successful management of Peter Döhle Schiffahrts-KG, one of the largest German shipping companies, for many years as Managing Director. Founded in 1956 and headquartered in Hamburg, the company employs around 5,000 staff at sea and on land worldwide and commercially manages a fleet of approximately 500 ships, including 400 container ships as well as bulkers and multipurpose freighters, of which 120 are also technically managed.

“I am very pleased about the election of Dr. Bornheim,” said outgoing President Alfred Hartmann: “I am sure my successor will lead the Association excellently and will continue to vigorously represent the interests of German shipping both nationally and internationally.”

First Woman in History at the Helm of the Association

Dr. Gaby Bornheim is the first woman to hold the office of President in the 114-year history of the VDR.

“I thank the Board for their trust,” said Dr. Gaby Bornheim after the election: “The tasks ahead of us are significant, such as decarbonization, creating enthusiasm among young people for a career perspective in shipping, and strengthening the competitiveness of the shipping location Germany against foreign competition.”

The new VDR President emphasizes: “Together with the new federal government, the VDR and its member companies will tackle these challenges quickly and proactively. The past year has shown us all: Germany needs shipping and well-functioning maritime trade routes. We will set impulses to continue operating a climate-friendly and competitive German shipping industry with excellently and future-oriented trained sea and land personnel.”

Photo: © VDR