Kotug Prepares Organization for Further Growth

Kotug International B.V, the well known provider of harbour towage services in Rotterdam Hamburg and Bremerhaven, have announced the appointment of two professionals to join its team. Mr Dorus Knegtel, a director of the company will be responsible for strategic issues and Business Development. Quality and safety of the operations will also fall under his direction. Mr Kommer Tanis, as a member of the management team, will coordinate the salvage and offshore operations of the group and give nautical/technical and operational support in Business Development. “These appointments underline the commitment of the shareholders to pursue growth of the activities, while consolidating and optimising the present successful operations”, says Ard-Jan Kooren, president of the group. New developments in terminal- and ship escort services require innovative solutions for ever more complicated tugboats. The experience of the development of the Rotor propulsion principle can be made available to customers in tailor made proposals, dedicated to provide a safe and efficient marine service for the terminal operator. Changing regulations and legislation in respect of port operations and security create new opportunities for dedicated port services. “The customer is requiring an adapted attitude when assisting his ship. It will put more pressure on the conventional structures of harbour towage operators and concessionaires”, explains Ard-Jan. Mr Tanis has the ideal c/v for his new position. After a career as an engineer sailing on large tugs and supply vessels, he was involved as a senior surveyor and consultant in many complicated marine projects in the field of salvage, environment control, security and safety. Dorus Knegtel has held management positions with other well-known Dutch towage companies and lastly was Divisional Director Harbour Towage with Smit. “His international commercial experience shall complement the already existing relations with our global customers”, adds Ard-Jan, who succeeded his father last year as president of the group. The present Kotug fleet of more than 20 tugboats is predominantly dedicated to harbour towage. They also maintain an active position in the offshore market , thanks to the versatility and power of the four Rotor tugs stationed in Rotterdam and Bremerhaven. “With this reinforcement of our organisation, we trust we shall be able to increase our portfolio of contracts and expand our fleet with dedicated new buildings”, Mr Kooren concludes.