Classification society DNV has appointed Cristina Saenz de Santa Maria as chief operating officer, effective January 1, 2025.
“The maritime industry is navigating growing complexities, from its operating environment to the expanding network of diverse stakeholders it serves and interacts with,” said Knut Ørbeck-Nilssen, ceo, DNV Maritime. “To address these challenges and seize new opportunities, the addition of a chief operating officer strengthens our leadership team, ensuring we are well-positioned to meet evolving business needs.”
“It is an exciting time for the maritime industry, and I am proud to play my part in supporting our customers as they navigate the complexities ahead,” said De Santa Maria, who is based out of Singapore. Her role is to streamline communication and coordination between regional teams and central functions, work with key customers globally and strengthen operational capabilities in key growth markets.
Since joining DNV in 2005, she has gained extensive experience across the maritime industry, working in newbuilding and operations as a ship surveyor and project manager in Spain, Portugal, South Korea, and Norway. She has also held several senior management roles across Norway, Africa, and Singapore, most recently as regional manager South East Asia, Pacific and India.
