Synergy Group appoints new chief commercial officer

Synergy Group, one of the world’s leading ship managers, has appointed Martin Ackermann as chief commercial officer, responsible for finance, commercial, strategy, and transformation interventions across the group.

Ackermann’s appointment comes at a time when the group is rapidly expanding its global footprint to support its fleet and service portfolio. The expansion has been accelerated by an agreement to take over the technical management business of Maersk Tankers.

“We are delighted to welcome Martin to Synergy Group and we look forward to his leadership as we further develop and strengthen the company’s portfolio of services,” says founder and CEO, Captain Rajesh Unni.

“He brings to Synergy Group passionate customer focus and in-depth capital markets experience,” continues Captain Unni. “As the world’s ship owners focus on reducing emissions, digitalising business models and moving towards a decarbonised future, I can think of no one better to join Synergy Group to assist our customers with these major tasks while also ensuring our operations meet the highest quality, efficiency and safety standards.”

Prior to joining Synergy Group, Ackermann held numerous executive leadership roles with prominent ship owners – CEO of Evergas, managing director of Eitzen Gas, managing director of B-Gas, and a board member of the World LPG Association. Most recently he worked closely with Synergy Group as CEO of BW LPG.

“Having enjoyed a successful partnership with Synergy Group as a customer for many years, I am thrilled to be able to join this side of the shipping business,” comments Ackermann.

“We have a team of 18,500+ ‘Synergians’. Together we have the means, skill, and experience to provide ship owners with the technology, safety, and operational services they need, and work with them as thought partners as owners embrace sustainability and undertake transformation agendas.

“People, systems, transparency and trust are the foundations of our business model and our means of driving long-term scale benefits for our customers.

“Having worked with asset management for decades, I am truly excited to be joining a business where our main asset is our people. Creating the best environment for them to thrive is what will propel Synergy to new heights.”

Headquartered in Singapore, Synergy Group spans across a network of 22 offices in 13 countries and employs more than 17,000 seafarers. It manages a fleet of almost 500 vessels including container ships, oil and chemical tankers, and car and bulk carriers.