Marine battery manufacturer Zem names new CEO
Jonathan Sørbye, who will become CEO of Zem in October 2025.
Marine battery maker Zem has appointed Jonathan Sørbye as its new chief executive, effective 1 October 2025.
The announcement follows the leadership transition from founder Egil Mollestad, who has led the company for 15 years and will continue to serve on the board, remaining operational within the business.
Zem is based in Norway and focuses on electrified marine propulsion solutions, including battery systems and hybrid technologies. Volvo Penta acquired a majority stake in Zem in 2021.
Sørbye most recently served as director of trade and international growth at Innovation Norway. He has held senior roles at Wilhelmsen and Hydro, with responsibilities spanning international business development, commercial shipping and strategic operations.
“Following Egil Mollestad’s successful efforts in developing Zem, we now welcome Jonathan Sørbye as the CEO of Zem, starting in early October this year,” says Johan Inden, chairman of the board of Zem.
“Jonathan is an experienced leader with an extensive background in the marine industry, and he brings with him a strong track record of driving growth and value creation in international environments.”
Mollestad, former CEO and founder of Zem, says: “Being deeply committed to Zem both as a minority owner and through 10 years as CEO, I am really looking forward to continuing the journey with Zem in a new role and to onboarding Jonathan as the CEO.
“Through the recruitment process, I have gotten to know Jonathan, and I am confident in his capabilities to lead Zem into the future.”
Zem says, following the appointment, the firm intends to expand its international presence and strengthen its role in the development of sustainable marine systems.
“I am truly excited to join Zem at such a pivotal time,” says Sørbye. “The maritime sector is undergoing a profound transformation, and Zem is uniquely positioned to lead this change. I look forward to working with the talented team at Zem, our majority owner, Volvo Penta and our partners across the industry to deliver sustainable impact through zero-emission solutions.”
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