In addition to reporting strong performance for the first 6 months of 2014 the Santa Fe Group announced the news that its CEO Lars Lykke Iversen would retire in 2015 based on a structured succession plan as the company looks forward to implementing the next stage of its business plan.
“I have had the honour of leading the Santa Fe Group since 1989 to its position today as a leader in global mobility services and with virtually unlimited future opportunities ahead,” Lars said. “I am proud of how we made it to where we are today and I have loved every minute of the journey. Given our strong position and exciting plans I believe now is the right time for me to begin a transition into retirement in 2015.”
Lars Lykke Iversen began his career 42 years ago with Santa Fe Group’s parent company, EAC (East Asiatic Company). In 1972, he transferred to Vancouver and subsequently in 1982 to Pasadena CA before relocating to Hong Kong in 1986. He took up the leadership of Santa Fe from its infancy in Hong Kong to the market leading global company it is today. Lars most recently relocated to the UK to establish the Group’s new global headquarters in 2012. Lars is married to Wendy, whom he met during his assignment in Vancouver, Canada. Together they have three grown children and a baby grandchild. Whilst in London, Lars and Wendy have enjoyed the chance to explore the city’s extensive selection of theatrical and cultural entertainment.
The retirement announcement came along with the EAC Interim H1, 2014 report showing strong performance indicators. The announcement comes at the same time EAC announced the retirement of the EAC President and CEO Niels Henrik Jensen. The statement also defines plans to consolidate EAC and the Santa Fe Group into one company – The Santa Fe Group.
Lars adds, “Through my work in the moving and relocation industry, I have had the pleasure to travel the world, work with the best people in the business and make some very good friends along the way.”
As the CEO of the Santa Fe Group, Lars oversaw its development from an international moving provider into a leading global mobility services company and led the business through a rapid period of growth. In 2010 and 2011, Lars spearheaded deals consolidating Santa Fe Relocation Services in Asia, Wridgways in Australia and Interdean in Europe under the Santa Fe Group. The company, instantly recognised by its red horse logo, has offices in 56 countries worldwide. During this period Lars oversaw expansion of services to become a single source global mobility service provider.
Over the years Lars has played an active role in the industry and has for several periods served as board member of a number of international trade organisations, including president of OMNI, (Overseas Moving Network International), chairman of FIDI Asia, sitting on the board of Worldwide ERC as well as receiving the Meritorious Service Award.
As he transitions toward retirement, Lars will continue to serve on the board of Santa Fe’s business in China.
“It has been my privilege to work with all the dedicated and skilled Santa Fe Group team members and I will eagerly grasp every opportunity to stay close to the business and contribute to its further success,” Lars said. ““There is still plenty for me to do before my successor arrives and rest assured that I will be with you all every step of the way.”
Lars will continue to serve as Santa Fe Group CEO until a replacement is fully integrated into the business.
Photo: Lars Lykke Iversen, Santa Fe Group CEO and inset, his inauguration as OMNI president.
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