Swedish climate technology and electric boat company X Shore has announced the appointment of René Hansen as its chief executive officer.
Hansen will be replacing former CEO Jenny Keisu. Over the past two years, the company has introduced two "groundbreaking" boats, the X Shore PRO and X Shore 1. During this period, X Shore has also secured capital through two rounds of funding, garnering support from "institutional investors and influential figures in the global technology and business arenas".
As CEO, Hansen will leverage operational and strategic experience from his roles in the snowboarding, recycling, digitalisation of farming, and energy industries, thereby bringing a "unique perspective" to the helm of X Shore.
Speaking on his new position, Hansen said: "I am honoured to step into the role of CEO at X Shore, a trailblazing company at the forefront of innovation, crafting 100 per cent electric boats for a sustainable future. X Shore's unwavering commitment to sustainability, design, and product excellence resonates deeply with my values. Central to our journey is our exceptional team, investors and the valued customers who share our commitment to a sustainable tomorrow. Together, we will propel our mission forward, ensuring that X Shore continues to lead in creating a fossil-free and nature-positive environment. I am proud to lead this next chapter and to work alongside our dedicated team and connect with our loyal customers and investors."
Commenting on Hansen's appointment, Jon Roskill, chair of the board at X Shore, remarked: "We are delighted to welcome René Hansen as our CEO. His extensive business background, combined with a strong product focus, aligns seamlessly with our vision for X Shore. We believe his leadership will propel us to new heights in technology, design, and sustainability. There is very strong demand for X Shore vessels and we will work very closely with René to get our boats on the water the world over.”
Prior to his appointment, Hansen served as an executive vice president at the Nordic renewables company Stora Enso and also served as VP for recycling company TOMRA. Before his recent industrial career, he held positions at Airwalk, Burton Snowboards, and Zound Industries.