VPS introduces new General Manager for Middle East and Africa

Maritime decarbonisation advisory services company VPS on Monday (11 November) announced the appointment of Dirk de Bruyn as the company’s new General Manager for Middle East and Africa.

In this role, Dirk will advance VPS’s business within the region with both new and existing key clients. He will be critical to the growth of both the traditional businesses of marine fuels testing and advisory as well as playing a key role of decarbonisation of the maritime industry.

With experience gained at Rio Tinto, Shell and recently TotalEnergies, and a range of local, regional and global roles across four continents in international oil, gas and energy, Dirk brings extensive experience and knowledge in the energy transition space.

Using his extensive knowledge gained in bunker fuel and lubricants, both from a supplier and end-users’ perspective, Dirk previously led a global team focused on energy transition and decarbonisation.

“The maritime industry is changing quickly with ambitious emissions targets and decarbonisation requirements driving the introduction of new technologies and fuels into the market,” said Dr. Malcolm Cooper, CEO of VPS.

“In this dynamic landscape, we are very pleased to have Dirk on board to help VPS customers optimise their operations by understanding which new fuels to use and how to adapt to these sustainable business drivers and meet new regulations.

Dirk noted: “Whilst the industry is rightfully focussed on the path towards Net Zero, we must ensure we do not take our eye off the ball on the operational risks posed by traditional fuels.”

“Energy Transition and the path towards Net Zero is an evolving landscape. With the change in fuel types and the introduction of future fuels, it is important to provide advice and guidance to our customers whilst taking into consideration the differences in legislations.

“VPS leads the way with their technology in biofuels as well as methanol testing which is a key component to reducing our clients emissions and helping them in their journey towards Net Zero. I am excited to be part of this journey with VPS’ with an industry who is focussed on fuel transition.

“With over forty years of knowledge and experience in the marine industry, and a wide range of advanced Digital Decarbonisation platforms such as PortStats, Maress, BOND and Emsys, I have found that our team is filled with experience and determination and I look forward to adding mine into the mix.”

Photo credit: VPS
Published: 13 November 2024