Dutch shipping lender NIBC Bank has brought in ABN Amro executive Claire Dumas as its new chief financial officer.
Dumas, 48, has been with the rival Dutch bank for 22 years and is currently a member of the supervisory board and chief executive of ABN Amro Hypotheken Groep.
She will join NIBC on 1 April, succeeding Herman Dijkhuizen, who is stepping down after nine years as finance chief.
NIBC said Dumas has broad experience in the financial industry and has held various senior positions at ABN Amro.
Dick Sluimers, chairman of the supervisory board, added: "Herman has been CFO since 2013 and is now working on his tenth annual report. It feels like a natural moment to hand over the baton to Claire after completing the 2022 annual report."
NIBC CEO Paulus de Wilt said: "She is a very talented person who has performed well in large financial institutions. Also on a personal level she will be a great addition to the team and I believe she will fit well in NIBC’s entrepreneurial culture."
In November, the bank renewed its financing cooperation with domestic shipbuilder Damen Shipyards. This is aimed at making it easier for owners to order low-carbon vessels.
The Dutch companies provide operational lease financing through Damen Financial Services.
The new deal allows an increase in the amount of money available, although details are being kept confidential.
Growing maritime book
The lender has been growing its shipping portfolio.
In the first half of 2022, the bank said it achieved a 25% increase in lending to the sector to €1.14bn ($1.14bn).
The total is also up about €140m from when NIBC spoke with TradeWinds in June 2022 to celebrate passing the €1bn mark.
NIBC has said it was continuing a “through the cycle” approach to lending in amounts between €10m and €45m, with recent clients including Harren & Partner, Norwegian Car Carriers, Conti Group and Carl Buttner.
