Over the past few days a number of changes have been made with new offices and new appointments for the likes of Roll Group, Kuehne+Nagel and Chapman Freeborn.

Roll Group sets up African office

Roll Group has made a new step in its regional expansion with the set up of Roll Africa Region to better serve its clients with shipping, transportation, lifting and installation of heavy/oversized cargo across the African continent.

Two industry experts Patrick van der Meide and Harmen Tiddens will lead the new unit. Speaking of the decision, Peter Rondhuis, Roll Group CEO said, “Patrick and Harmen are a great match with Roll Group, as they have a strong track record in heavy lifting and transportation as well as maritime services and shipping. And importantly they also have experience in Africa and a passion for the continent. Roll Group is keen to serve our clients across the world, and after our establishment in the Americas, Asia and the Middle-East many clients approached Roll Group if we can assist with their heavy transport challenges in Africa. As we would strive every day to execute safe operations at the highest’s industry level we needed experience and solid understanding of this expanding market and are glad to have Patrick and Harmen on board. Together we have a long-term view and are committed to Africa.”

With a network spanning the whole continent of Africa, Roll Group will work closely together with selected local partners.

“Roll can offer quite a unique package with vessels, cranes, self-propelled trailers, gantries, but also project management, experienced staff and engineering. We think the combined offering of land and sea solutions can be extra valuable for Africa. Together with our partners we can provide ‘Factory to Foundation’ solutions, meaning less interfaces within a project which helps to ensure timelines are met, and quality is delivered within budget, also in Africa.” says Van Der Meide.

New general manager for Kuehne+Nagel Japan

Kuehne+Nagel has named Baris Sever as the General Manager of Project Logistics at Kuehne+Nagel Japan.

“As a global citizen, I’ve had the privilege of working with diverse teams and nationalities worldwide, which has given me a broad understanding of different cultures, business practices, and logistics challenges. Now, I’m humbled by the opportunity to lead the project logistics team in this fascinating country and eager to learn from and contribute to Japan’s vibrant and dynamic market.,” Sever said.

Sever further noted that the Kuehne+Nagel Japan Projects will continue to strive to deliver exceptional service and innovative project logistics solutions while prioritising safety, efficiency and transparency.

Chapman Freeborn appoints new General Manager – UK

The global air charter specialist, Chapman Freeborn, part of Avia Solutions Group, has named James Edwards as General Manager – UK.

Joining Chapman Freeborn with a wealth of aviation experience, James has successfully grown and worked with companies such as Airways Aviation, British Airways and American Airlines. He brings expertise from a variety of sectors, including commercial flight training, airline revenue growth and MRO. Most recently he was based at London Stansted Airport at Inflite The Jet Centre.

The position of General Manager – UK is a brand new role at Chapman Freeborn and has been created to ensure the business is prepared for future expansion.

Reto Hunziker, President – Europe, explains, “The UK teams and people are very important for the success of the organisation and therefore need dedicated leadership and management. James will be key to supporting the growth plans for the UK across all products and verticals, as well as managing the teams and ensuring the right structure is in place.”