Arnold de Bruijn will join the IADC (International Association of Dredging Companies) on April 1. In future, he will lead the organization as Secretary General.
De Bruijn succeeds René Kolman, who has headed the international dredging association since 2008.
After a transition period until November 1, Kolman will retire while De Bruijn takes on the role of Secretary General. Born in the Netherlands, Kolman has a long history in the dredging industry. His career began at Royal IHC, where he worked for almost twelve years in various positions – including as a developer for so-called “cutter section dredgers” and also as Technical Manager. De Bruijn also worked at Netherlands Maritime Technology, most recently in the management department.
“Ideal successor” for the IADC
“The Board sees Arnold de Bruijn as the ideal successor due to his industry knowledge, vision and leadership,” said Frank Verhoeven, President of IADC. “With his experience and fresh perspective, he will not only build on current developments, but also seize new opportunities to raise the profile of the sector internationally.” The association’s members also include the specialist shipping companies Jan de Nul and Royal Boskalis.
René Kolman sees the dredging sector in a “pioneering role” in the development and implementation of sustainable solutions at sea. He wished his successor every success in his role and thanked the members of the IADC for a “wonderful time”.
“This role perfectly combines my background as a shipbuilder in the dredging industry and my experience as a lawyer and manager in an association,” said De Bruijn. The industry is making the world a safer, better and more sustainable place and he is looking forward to using his knowledge in this new position.
