A long and loyal service to VIKING

Esbjerg, Denmark, March 2026

After more than three decades as a prominent and contributing member, John Riis Andersen has, at his own request, stepped down from the board of VIKING LIFE-SAVING EQUIPMENT A/S at the Annual General Meeting on 12 March.

Since 1990, John Riis Andersen has contributed to the company’s development and continuity. With his insight, sense of responsibility and strategic vision, he has made a significant contribution to VIKING’s evolution from a strong Danish manufacturer of safety and rescue equipment into the global market leader it is today – whilst, it should be noted, never losing touch with its roots in West Jutland. 

“The Sørensen family, the Board of Directors and the entire VIKING organisation thank John Riis Andersen for his exemplary service over the decades. John is the symbol of loyalty, integrity and commitment. His work for the benefit of the company, its employees and owners deserve every possible recognition, and his contribution to VIKING’s development has been significant,” says Jens Lindholm, Chairman of the Board at VIKING.

With 36 years on the VIKING board, John Riis Andersen is the longest-serving board member outside the founding Sørensen family.

“Thank you for your trust over the many years. I am proud to have helped shape the development of a company that makes such a big difference to so many people’s lives every single day. VIKING is in good shape, and I look forward with confidence to the company’s continued development,” says John Riis Andersen.

Former COO of DSV Road Division, Kasper Holmstrup, will take up the vacant seat on the board on 1 April 2026.

“With Kasper Holmstrup, we are bringing in a profile with a strong logistics background and solid operational experience. With in-depth knowledge of the changes VIKING is currently implementing to strengthen our operational model, Kasper Holmstrup is a really good fit for VIKING,” says Jens Lindholm.

For further information
Contact Jens Lindholm – Chairman of the board
Via: Malte V. Eggers, Head of Communication
Telephone: +45 20 97 58 09 / email: mveg@viking-life.com

John Andersen (1)

John Riis Andersen

With his departure from the board of directors at the annual general meeting on 12 March 2026, John Riis Andersen brings to a close a 36 year chapter in VIKING’s history – a chapter that bears witness to perseverance, loyalty and a strong commitment to the company and its ownership.

Kasper Holmstrup

Kasper Holmstrup

VIKING is a global leader with a strong foundation, talented employees and clear visions, which every day make a vital difference to safety at sea. I am very much looking forward to playing my part in supporting the company’s continued growth and development.