Anders Runevad is to step down as chief executive of Danish turbine manufacturer Vestas on 1 August and will be replaced by company board member Henrik Andersen.
Vestas said the appointment follows its long-term succession planning, which will see Runevad (pictured) staying involved until mid-2020 as advisor to the manufacturer. Runevad will also remain chairman of MHI Vestas during this period.
Andersen is currently group chief executive of Hempel and joined the Vestas board in 2013. He has held management roles in global companies for the past two decades.
Vestas chairman Bert Nordberg said: “Henrik has a proven track record of building and transforming global businesses, which will be a huge asset as Vestas goes from the leader in wind energy to the leader in sustainable energy.
“On behalf of the board, I would like to thank Anders for his tremendous contribution to Vestas since 2013.
“Under his strong strategic and operational leadership, Vestas successfully went through a turnaround, became the global leader in wind energy and started the journey towards becoming the global leader in sustainable energy solutions.
“As a result, Vestas has a strong foundation to execute on short-term priorities, invest in the future, and continue to help preserve our planet for future generations. “
Runevad said: “After completing the turnaround, implementing our profitable growth strategy, and bringing wind energy on par with fossil fuel, Vestas and the industry have entered a new phase and I believe this is the right time for me to step down.
“I would like to take this opportunity to thank all the dedicated employees I’ve worked with over the last six years and I look forward to supporting Henrik and Bert as an advisor.”
Andersen said: “I’m truly excited by the opportunity to join Vestas and continue the company’s journey to become the global leader in sustainable energy solutions.
“I’ve been part of Vestas for the last six years and will be working closely with Anders and the rest of the management team to ensure a smooth transition, so we execute successfully in 2019, prepare for the future and drive the energy transition forward.”