Torch is passed to a new generation at MSC

Diego Aponte succeeds founder and father Gianluigi Aponte as president and chief executive officer.    Mediterranean Shipping Company confirmed that Diego Aponte has been named president and chief executive officer, succeeding his father, Gianluigi Aponte, who founded the company in 1970 with a single ship, growing it into the world’s second largest container company.
   The company said Gianluigi will become group executive chairman and “continue to oversee all group-related activities as well as supporting Diego in shaping the future of MSC.”
   MSC had identified Diego as CEO last month when it provided details about the 2M vessel sharing agreement with Maersk.
   “It is important that we keep looking forward and that we prepare the company for the future,” said Gianluigi Aponte. “The board and I firmly believe that Diego, supported by his senior management, will deliver continued success for MSC and its customers. We already have a number of projects underway which will help improve our overall service offering to clients, whilst improving our efficiencies. It is an exciting time for MSC.”
   Diego joined MSC in 1997 and has worked in various functions across the business including line management, where he managed all aspects of the trade. In recent years, the company said he has taken more responsibility in the wider running of the company, serving as vice president. As chairman of Terminal Investment Limited, Diego has also overseen the growth and strategic direction of MSC’s port division.
   “MSC has a proud heritage,” said Diego, and noted his father “has created an influential global brand; MSC inspires passion, dedication and entrepreneurism wherever you look. The management team, together with the family board, will continue to work hard to keep MSC as special today as it was in 1970.”