The Port of Rotterdam Authority has announced the appointment of Berte Simons as its new Chief Operating Officer (COO), effective January 1, 2025. Simons will take over the role from Boudewijn Siemons, who has been serving as interim COO while also holding the position of Chief Executive Officer (CEO) since February 2024.
With this appointment, the Executive Board of the Port Authority will comprise CEO Boudewijn Siemons, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Vivienne de Leeuw, and COO Berte Simons, solidifying its leadership team as it navigates the transition towards a more sustainable and circular port ecosystem.
An Experienced Leader with a Vision for Sustainability
Berte Simons brings a wealth of experience to the Port of Rotterdam Authority. Her appointment by the shareholders, which include the municipality of Rotterdam and the Dutch national government, was made following a recommendation from the Supervisory Board. The term of her appointment is set for four years.
Koos Timmermans, Chair of the Supervisory Board, expressed confidence in Simons’ expertise “The Supervisory Board is pleased that Berte Simons wants to bring her extensive expertise as a marine engineer to the Port Authority. She brings with her international experience in leading large-scale and complex infrastructure projects in ports and industrial areas, the knowledge and experience we need for a successful and coordinated transition to a fossil-free and circular port.”
A Distinguished Career in the Maritime and Energy Sectors
Simons has an impressive career history spanning over two decades. After completing her training as a maritime officer, she began her professional journey in 2003 as a policy officer at North Sea Port. In 2006, she transitioned to a leadership role at Royal HaskoningDHV, an international consulting and engineering firm. During her 15-year tenure, Simons managed numerous high-profile projects across the mining, heavy industry, aviation, and maritime sectors.
In her most recent role, Simons served as Director of the CO2 Storage & Transport Systems business unit at Energie Beheer Nederland (EBN). She was instrumental in the Porthos project, a key CO2 transport and storage initiative developed in collaboration with the Port of Rotterdam Authority and Gasunie. Her involvement in the project highlights her commitment to advancing sustainable practices within the industry.
Berte Simons shared her enthusiasm for the new role “In the role of COO of the Port Authority, everything comes together for me. The port is a place that is constantly changing and connected to the whole world. A place where the activities of industry, logistics and the living environment come together. I look forward to working with colleagues and stakeholders to contribute to the sustainable development of the port in harmony with the environment.”
Driving Forward Sustainability at Europe’s Busiest Port
As the incoming COO, Simons will be at the forefront of implementing strategic initiatives aimed at decarbonizing port operations and enhancing the Port of Rotterdam‘s position as a global leader in sustainable logistics. Her appointment is seen as a crucial step towards strengthening the port’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint and transitioning towards renewable energy sources, aligning with broader goals for a fossil-free future.
The Port of Rotterdam is not only Europe’s largest port but also a critical hub for global trade, playing a significant role in the energy transition and circular economy. With Berte Simons joining the executive team, the port is well-positioned to continue its path toward innovation and sustainability.
About the Port of Rotterdam Authority
The Port of Rotterdam Authority is dedicated to enhancing the port’s standing as a global logistics hub and industrial complex. Their core objectives include developing, managing, and operating the port sustainably while providing fast and safe services for shipping. The Authority aims to foster innovation in port operations, with a strong focus on environmental sustainability.
Source The Port of Rotterdam