DFDS Appoints Liezel du Toit as Transformation Chief
The Copenhagen-based shipping and logistics company named a new Chief Transformation Officer to lead strategy execution across the business.
Updated on Nov. 4, 2026 in People
DFDS has appointed Liezel du Toit as Chief Transformation Officer and member of its Executive Management Team, with responsibility for leading strategy execution and driving transformation across the company. She joins on 1 December 2026.
Why it matters
The role was created by expanding the Executive Management Team as DFDS undertakes a multi-year transformation that requires disciplined execution and a strong focus on superior financial results. The appointment gives the transformation agenda clear ownership at the executive level.
DFDS, founded in 1866, reports annual revenue of DKK 32bn and employs 15,000 full-time staff. The announcement does not specify financial targets tied to the transformation program.
The players
DFDS
A Copenhagen-headquartered shipping and logistics company founded in 1866 and listed on the Copenhagen stock exchange, operating ferry and freight transport across Europe.
Liezel du Toit
An executive with two decades of experience in container shipping at Maersk and P&O Nedlloyd, most recently serving as Global Head of Product and Customer Experience at APM Terminals.
The details
Liezel du Toit is currently Global Head of Product and Customer Experience at APM Terminals and previously held a seat on Maersk's Ocean Leadership Team during a 20-year career with Maersk and P&O Nedlloyd. DFDS said the appointment strengthens its transformation capabilities ahead of executing its updated strategy in the coming years.
Timeline
4 November 2026: DFDS announces the appointment.
1 December 2026: Liezel du Toit joins DFDS as Chief Transformation Officer.
Market Landscape
The hire of an executive with a long Maersk and P&O Nedlloyd background reflects continuing movement of senior shipping talent among large European and global carriers. It signals DFDS positioning its transformation agenda against competitors that have invested in customer-facing product leadership.
For customers and freight shippers, the appointment itself does not change current service, pricing, or booking terms. Any effect will depend on how the transformation strategy is executed in the coming years.
The takeaway
Leadership appointments that create dedicated transformation roles signal where a company intends to focus its execution. Watching how DFDS delivers on its updated strategy will show whether the new role translates into measurable results.
What happens next
Liezel du Toit is scheduled to join DFDS as Chief Transformation Officer on 1 December 2026.
Further reading
Explore more executive moves in the People section of our business coverage.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Manila times.
