Evan Kortmann appointed as CEO

Daan Balk, the seventh generation of Balk to direct and manage the refit and repair shipyard Balk Shipyard, has entered semi-retirement. Balk has successfully managed the operations at Balk Shipyard since 1998, overseeing major growth, a facility change to its current location in Urk, the Netherlands, and a merger with Zhongying Intl Holding Group Ltd, which will support future expansion plans for the Dutch Shipyard.

But with a championship that spans more than two decades and countless completed projects, Daan Balk has decided it’s time to step back and enter semi-retirement. Evan Kortmann, Chief Commercial Officer, has been appointed as Balks replacement with immediate effect.

Evan Kortmann is a very suitable candidate and we are very happy to have found him to fill the role of CEO, says Daan Balk of Balk Shipyard. Evan will bring a new energy and fill his position with great enthusiasm and drive.

Balk Shipyard is a true heritage shipyard in the Dutch yachting industry and it’s an honour to have the opportunity to take over the helm from Daan Balk, says Evan Kortmann, Chief Executive Officer at Balk Shipyard. Daan has driven Balk Shipyard from a small family enterprise into a leading specialist in superyacht refits and rebuilds. I am looking forward to continue the Balk 225-years legacy.

Evan Kortmann joined Balk Shipyard over a year ago as Chief Commercial Officer and has been instrumental in the yard’s recent success. With Kortmann’s involvement, Balk Shipyard has secured ground rights for a long-awaited expansion and has completed some highly acclaimed projects, such as the rebuild of the 50.4-metre Feadship Emerald.

The secret to Balk Shipyard’s success lies in its team, Evan Kortmann continues. The passion and involvement from everyone here at Balk has been instrumental in the completion of projects such as Emerald. The dedication, ability to adapt and craftsmanship of our up to third generation employees at Balk Shipyard are indescribable.

Before assuming the role of CCO, Kortmann was director of Sevenstar Yacht Transport, before founding the local transport company We Ship Yachts in 2018. Kortmann has an acute acumen for the industry and will continue the legacy of Balk Shipyard. Daan Balk will remain a non-executive director and advisor of the shipyard.

The new board of directors will comprise of CEO, Evan Kortmann and CFO Ronald Frijling. Daan Balk is handing over Balk Shipyard in outstanding financial health with an average annual turnover of 15 million Euro and a staff of 50 people working on the refit and rebuild of superyachts. The number of workers triples during the season, with many temporary staff and contractors joining the team.

I am very grateful to have had the opportunity to act as CEO for Balk Shipyard for many years, says Daan Balk. I would like to extend my personal thanks and appreciation to all the clients who have given us the assignments and trust to work on their projects. I would also like to say a big thank you to the team who are incredibly loyal and supportive, of which we at Balk Shipyard are immensely proud.

Balk Shipyard needs fresh energy to remain a dynamic company and that includes a new, fresh perspective and I believe Evan Kortmann will bring the momentum we need.