Classification society ABS to relocate its Northern European regional marine operations office from London to Hamburg, Germany. “This relocation is part of ABS’ ongoing effort to place our frontline decision makers closer to our clients and be more responsive to their needs,” says ABS President and CEO Christopher J. Wiernicki. Wolfgang Buttgereit, Regional Vice President of Northern Europe, will lead the Hamburg team, focusing local efforts on challenges unique to the area and drawing on the extensive network of ABS resources around the globe to provide prompt and comprehensive solutions. Buttgereit, a 21-year veteran of ABS, is returning to Germany – where he previously served as Manager of ABS Germany – from his most recent assignment as Regional Vice President of Southern China.