Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) recently announced that Soren Toft, former Maersk COO will join the company as new chief executive officer.

In a statement, MSC, the world’s second-largest shipping line, said Toft will be based in Geneva, and his start date with the company will be communicated in due course.

"As the world of shipping continues to evolve through great challenges such as digitalisation and the environmental goals set by the UN International Maritime Organization (IMO), container carriers and their customers face a range of exciting tests and opportunities," MSC said.

"MSC is delighted that Mr Toft will be supporting the Aponte family at the helm to ensure that the company remains a global leader in the years to come," it added, noting that the new CEO will report directly to Diego Aponte, Group President, and Gianluigi Aponte, founder and Group Chairman.

The Swiss-Italian shipping line noted Toft's "impressive career" in the industry, having worked at Maersk for the past 25 years, specifically as Maersk Line’s Chief Operating Officer since 2014.

"MSC is confident that this appointment will bring significant value to its cargo businesses, building on the company’s existing strengths and boosting its development plans even further," the shipping line added.