Maite Klarup
Singapore
Summary
Experienced Global Commercial Director with over 20 years of international leadership in the maritime industry. Specializes in sustainability, decarbonization, and commercial transformation. Demonstrated success in governance, stakeholder engagement, and cross-functional leadership. Proficient in launching sustainable technology solutions, driving strategic growth, forging partnerships, and navigating complex sales cycles. Dedicated to shaping ethical, environmentally focused maritime practices through executive and advisory board service.
Overview
23
23
years of professional experience
Work History
Global Commercial Director
e1 Marine
01.2021 - Current
- I spearhead the development and execution of global commercialization of methanol-to-hydrogen technology for the maritime industry.
- Manage global sales and marketing efforts, including pricing strategies, promotional activities, and customer service initiatives, maintaining high-quality standards and customer satisfaction.
- Negotiate and secure deals with key stakeholders, fostering long-term, profitable partnerships that advance e1 Marine's market presence.
- Lead a diverse team across various regions and drive initiatives that position e1 Marine at the forefront of sustainable maritime technology, enhancing sales productivity by 40%.
- Conduct in-depth market research to identify growth opportunities, develop detailed business plans and proposals that support expansion into North America, Europe, and Asia Pacific.
- Collaborate with product development and engineering teams, providing market-driven feedback to guide product enhancements and innovations.
- This role underscores my commitment to advancing clean energy solutions within the maritime industry, leveraging strategic insight and leadership to drive sustainable growth and innovation.
General Manager Southeast Asia
BIMCO
01.2016 - 01.2021
- Directed regional strategy and operations for the world's largest shipping association. Developed and executed business strategies that resulted in a 45% increase in membership across Southeast Asia, strengthening BIMCO's regional footprint.
- Provided expert guidance to prospective and existing members on various membership categories, ensuring alignment with their organizational needs and BIMCO's offerings.
- Promoted awareness and understanding of international maritime standards, particularly concerning environmental regulations, to support compliance and best practices among members.
- Engaged with maritime authorities in Southeast Asia to address and resolve regional issues impacting the shipping industry, reinforcing BIMCO's role as a key industry advocate.
- Established and nurtured a unique network within the maritime sector in Southeast Asia, positioning BIMCO as a central hub for industry insights and collaboration.
- Managed a robust portfolio of regional activities, facilitating high-level networking opportunities among C-suite executives, enhancing member engagement and collaboration.
Head of PR & Communications
THOME Group
01.2012 - 01.2016
- Directed comprehensive external communication strategies, enhancing brand visibility and contributing to increased sales and strengthened employer branding.
- Planned and executed public relations campaigns, stakeholder engagement activities, and branding efforts, ensuring consistent messaging and corporate identity across all subsidiaries.
- Produced key corporate materials, including Annual and Sustainability Reports, marketing collateral, and managed corporate media relations to effectively convey the company's mission and achievements.
- Managed group sponsorship opportunities and organized events that aligned with corporate values and enhanced stakeholder relationships.
- Expanded the company's network within the shipping industry, promoting Singapore's status as a premier global hub port and international maritime centre through strategic partnerships and advocacy.
Commercial Manager | Various Roles
Nordana (now Weco RoRo)
01.2002 - 01.2012
- Traffic Manager - Westbound Bulk & Ro/Ro (2009-2012): Negotiated high-value contracts and managed multi-market customer portfolios. Oversaw commercial/operational performance of multiple trade lanes for westbound bulk and roll-on/roll-off services, optimizing vessel utilization and ensuring timely cargo delivery across key trade routes.
- Traffic Manager - Inter Latin America Trade (2006-2009): Managed scheduling and coordination of shipments within Latin America, enhancing service reliability and strengthening regional partnerships. Ensured compliance with U.S. FMC and international shipping regulations.
- Key Account & Marketing Manager (2002-2006): Led marketing initiatives and managed relationships with major clients, contributing to increased market share and customer satisfaction.
Education
Diploma - Decarbonisation in Shipping
Lloyd's Maritime Academy
10-2026
Executive MBA - Shipping & Logistics
Copenhagen Business School
01.2011
BSc - Hotel & Business Administration
Universidad Simón Bolívar
Skills
- Commercial Strategy Implementation
- Sales Team Leadership
- Corporate governance
- ESG & Decarbonization Strategy
- Commercial Growth & Global Market Expansion
- Client Relationship Management
- Risk Management & Regulatory Compliance
- Maritime Innovation & Sustainability
- Strategic Partnerships & Stakeholder Engagement
- Data-Driven Business Decisions
- Leadership in Diverse, Multinational Environments
- Change Management & Business Transformation
Languages
English
Advanced (C1)
Spanish
Bilingual or Proficient (C2)
Danish
Upper intermediate (B2)
French
Professional Working
Board Appointments
- Executive Board Member, WISTA Canada
- Former Executive Board Member, WISTA Singapore
- Board Member, NTU Maritime Business Society
- Former Board Member, Mission to Seafarers, Singapore
- Alumni, Executive MBA Blue MBA, CBS
Professional Courses
- Maritime Law Academy, BIMCO, Cambridge, UK, 01/01/19
- Maritime Public Leadership Program, MPA, Singapore, 01/01/18
- Maritime Law, SKULD P&I Club, Denmark, 01/01/06
- Danish Language Diploma, K.I.S.S., Copenhagen, 01/01/03
Timeline
Global Commercial Director
e1 Marine
01.2021 - Current
General Manager Southeast Asia
BIMCO
01.2016 - 01.2021
Head of PR & Communications
THOME Group
01.2012 - 01.2016
Commercial Manager | Various Roles
Nordana (now Weco RoRo)
01.2002 - 01.2012
Executive MBA - Shipping & Logistics
Copenhagen Business School
Diploma - Decarbonisation in Shipping
Lloyd's Maritime Academy
BSc - Hotel & Business Administration
Universidad Simón Bolívar
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