The British national has spent over two decades with Maersk across multiple regions, most recently leading the company’s India, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka operations where he delivered exceptional growth and profitability improvements
Maersk has revealed that Christopher Cook, currently managing director of its India, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka (IBS) area, will take over as the new managing director of UK and Ireland area at the start of the new year.
The British national joined Maersk as a trainee in 2002 and has worked over the last two decades across Africa, Europe, the Middle East and India with both Damco and Maersk.
Cook has spent the last seven years in the IMEA region, initially as managing director in the UAE area, successfully leading the integration and transformation of the business there.
Most recently, he served as managing director for the IBS area where he operationalised the long-term strategy for the region, deepened the operational execution capability and lifted the profitability with successful growth across the portfolio, the group said.
”I am very pleased to welcome Chris to our region Europe leadership team as our new head of UK and Ireland area,” said Aymeric Chandavoine, EVP and president for Europe at Maersk.
”Chris is no stranger to the UK and brings a strong customer focus.
”He is also known for his passion about people and developing strong culture in the organisations he leads,” he added.
With Cook moving on, Maersk has appointed Thomas Theeuwes as its new managing director for India, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka, also effective 1 January 2026.
Theeuwes brings nearly two decades of global expertise to the role, most recently serving as managing director of the West Africa area since 2024.
”It is with great pleasure that I welcome Thomas to his new role in one of our most important markets,” said Richard Morgan, managing director of the Indian subcontinent, Middle East, and Africa.
”Thomas is a seasoned leader, and his experience from various parts of the world will aid our growth in this region.”
Theeuwes said called the IBS markets ”extremely exciting” and said they offer great growth potential.
”I am excited to work closely with our talented team here,” he enthused.
”Together, we will strengthen Maersk’s position as a trusted logistics partner for our customers while driving solutions that create value for them and our stakeholders.
Morgan also recognised Cook’s “significant contributions” as he moved onto his new role.
“Christopher has been pivotal in operationalising our long-term strategy and delivering exceptional growth across India, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka,” he outlined.
”His leadership has positioned us strongly for the next phase of development, and we look forward to his continued success in his new role.”
