Koos Zumker passes the helm after 40 years – welcoming Hans Kroon

After eighteen years at the helm of Chartering, Koos Zumkehr has decided to make way for a new generation, effective January 1, 2026. Since 2007, he has led the chartering organization through market cycles, peak periods, and strategic realignments. Koos has consciously chosen to step back before his retirement at the end of 2026: "It's time to let go. The organization is in good shape, and Hans is ready to take over."

This transition is no coincidence. Koos and Hans began a carefully prepared handover period three years ago. The goal: to ease Hans into a complex and dynamic role. According to Koos, Hans "went through this phase with conviction" and is truly "the right man in the right place."

Koos emphasizes that the position of Chartering Director is a job that requires constant flexibility: a high pace, high pressure, and a daily balance between commercial, operational, and international coordination. "It's a challenging and sometimes stressful role, but Hans has demonstrated his mastery of the combination of overview, decisiveness, and team spirit. He is fully prepared to take this department to the next level."

Although Koos is handing over his ultimate responsibility, he will not be disappearing. In 2026, he will remain actively involved to support Hans in his new role. He will also focus on further process improvements within Chartering. Together with the Bridge team, he will critically review the processes, with the ambition to make them leaner, more consistent, and more scalable for both Delfzijl and the international offices. "There is still plenty of potential for optimization for Bridge. This is the time to capitalize on it together", says Koos.

For Koos himself, this new phase primarily means working differently, but not less involvement. He is looking forward to a role that will give him more time to support colleagues one-on-one and share experience without the daily pressure of ultimate responsibility. I hope to continue collaborating in the same way, but also in new ways. My role is changing, but my motivation to contribute remains the same.

With the arrival of Hans as the new director of Chartering and the active guidance of Koos, the department remains firmly positioned for the coming years. A carefully planned transition thus forms the foundation for continuity, growth, and further professionalization within Chartering.