After an “intense” five-year succession hunt, the new men in the hot seats at Ardmore Shipping can finally break the silence over their appointments.

The New York-listed, Ireland-based operation revealed its “long-established” succession plan this month, as founder Anthony Gurnee announced his retirement as chief executive and director.

“It’s been quite a process!” chief commercial officer Gernot Ruppelt told TradeWinds in Ardmore’s boardroom overlooking the old port of Cork.