Rickmers-Linie, which specializes in worldwide project and heavy lift liner services, continues to streamline operations and improve its global organization. Robert Sappio, who has been heading Rickmers-Linie (America) Inc since September 2012, will step down from the position of President and CEO effective 1 July 2014. However, he will remain connected to the company as a member of the Board of Rickmers-Linie (America). Waldemar (Val) Poulsen has been named President and CEO of Rickmers-Linie (America) Inc. based in Houston, Texas effective the same date. Before joining Rickmers-Linie, Poulsen was Director/Country Manager with Safmarine in Houston, responsible for the activities of the multi-purpose division of Safmarine in the Americas. Ulrich Ulrichs, CEO of Rickmers-Linie thanked Sappio for his instrumental role in transforming and improving the company’s operations in the Americas. “Bob’s leadership over the last two years has helped to better position our company for the future in the Americas. We are happy he will remain connected to the company in a Board role.” Ulrichs went on to say, “We are looking forward to Val Poulsen joining our team. He brings a wealth of experience from Maersk Line and Safmarine to his new role as President and CEO of Rickmers-Linie (America). I am confident that Mr Poulsen will be a valuable asset to the Rickmers organization.”