Svitzer appoints new Managing Director for the UK

Svitzer has selected Matthew Gordon to lead its business in the UK. For the past 30 years, he has held various leadership roles within the energy sector and maritime industry.

Leading global towage and marine solutions provider Svitzer has appointed Matthew Gordon as Managing Director in the UK, where he will oversee an operation comprising more than 75 tugs and support vessels and around 800 people across 10 ports.

Gordon has extensive experience in the maritime services industry, having served as CEO of North Star, as Managing Director, UK, at Atlantic Offshore, and as Managing Director, UK, at Vroon Offshore Services, which has provided him with well-rounded insights into customers’ needs and expectations.

“The UK is Svitzer’s largest cluster, highly competitive and complex. I feel confident that Matt, with his experience, leadership capabilities and personality, will make a positive difference for Svitzer, our people and customers,” says Arjen Van Dijk, Managing Director of Svitzer Europe.

Gordon looks forward to joining Svitzer and to working in an industry he knows well.

“Port congestion, larger vessels and more extreme weather mean the maritime supply chain is challenged. Svitzer offers a unique value proposition that addresses this, ensuring continuous operations. I look forward to engaging with customers to strengthen maritime infrastructure, which is crucial to society and the economy,” says Matthew Gordon.

Matthew Gordon will start in his new position on 5 October 2026.