Caverton Marine has appointed former Euronav London General Manager, Pauline Sessou-Diop, as its Chief Commercial Officer (CCO). In a statement, the company said Sessou-Diop would be based in London and would be responsible for defining Caverton Marine’s commercial and business development strategy, with a focus on eco-efficient fleet expansion in oil, gas and bulk marine transportation worldwide, particularly across West Africa.
Her appointment comes at a time when deregulation of Nigeria’s downstream sector and the implementation of the Petroleum Industry Act are encouraging increased domestic and foreign private sector investment.
Welcoming her to the team, Caverton Offshore Support Group CEO, Bode Makanjuola, said the company aims to strengthen its position as a reliable energy transport partner.
“We want to deliver safe, efficient and sustainable shipping solutions. Pauline brings a wealth of knowledge in company strategy, time charter negotiations and vessel acquisitions. As appetite for accessing the West African region expands, we want to offer a differentiated service that investors can trust,” he said.
Sessou-Diop brings more than 21 years of experience in the tanker industry, most of which was spent with Euronav. Until recently, she was General Manager of Euronav’s London commercial office, where she also represented the company in the Tankers International VLCC pool.
At Caverton Marine, she will be tasked with identifying new markets, evaluating expansion opportunities, and negotiating strategic alliances and acquisitions to drive growth. She will also represent the company in Unity Shipping Worldwide, a joint venture between Caverton, Stena Bulk and the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC).
“I am excited and proud to join a dynamic and already successful team and eager to bring my knowledge and experience to support Caverton Marine’s growth ambitions,” Sessou-Diop said. “As a company, we have unparalleled regional expertise with government bodies and organisations across the West African region. We want to open this up to the marine industry and enable customers to benefit from this booming market.”
Sessou-Diop studied in France, the United Kingdom and the United States. She holds a Bachelor of Science in International Business from Neoma Business School in France and a Bachelor of Arts in European Business Studies from the University of Lincoln, Hull, majoring in economics, international finance, marketing and management. She is also a member of the Institute of Chartered Shipbrokers and holds an advanced diploma in Ship Sale and Purchase and Shipping Business.
