Benoît Klein

CEO | Container Terminals | Transformation, Greenfield Development & Growth Platforms | Europe & Asia

Le Havre, Normandy, France

About

With over 30 years of experience in container terminal operations and global maritime supply chains, I have led and transformed strategic terminal platforms across Europe and Asia, operating in highly competitive, capital-intensive, and complex environments. As CEO, I have managed organizations generating up to €100M in revenue and led multi-site teams of up to 700 people. My track record includes driving terminal transformations, scaling operations, and strengthening performance in close coordination with global shipping lines and network strategies. I specialize in aligning operations, commercial priorities, and investment decisions to deliver sustainable and measurable performance. This includes improving productivity, managing capacity constraints, and ensuring reliability in execution-critical environments. I regularly engage with boards and shareholders on strategic direction, capital allocation, and governance matters. I operate comfortably at the intersection of operational detail and strategic oversight, ensuring strong alignment between long-term vision and disciplined execution. My leadership style is direct, pragmatic, and field-oriented. I focus on empowering teams close to operations, driving accountability, and fostering a culture of trust and continuous improvement. Throughout my career, I have worked closely with major shipping lines, partners, and public authorities, navigating complex stakeholder environments and building long-term, balanced relationships. Outside of work, I am a husband and father of two. I value time with my family and enjoy outdoor activities, which help me stay grounded and maintain perspective.

Experience

  • Chief Executive Officer at Hanseatic Global Terminals Le Havre
    Sep 2025 - Present · 10 mos

    As CEO of Hanseatic Global Terminals Le Havre, I am leading a comprehensive transformation plan to enhance performance, resilience, and sustainability. By investing in modern equipment, optimizing operations, and developing new service offerings, we aim to position Le Havre as a key, future-ready hub within HGT’s global network and the European supply chain.

  • Vice President Port Logistics, Southeast Asia at DP World
    Sep 2024 - Sep 2025 · 1 yr 1 mo

    Led Port Logistics across Southeast Asia, driving multimodal transport optimization and regional capability building. Oversaw terminal and inland operations in Vietnam, enhancing cargo flow, connectivity, and operational performance. Delivered cost and carbon reductions through optimized barge and rail networks, while leading infrastructure expansion (ICDs, inland logistics terminals) and digital innovation. Partnered closely with authorities and stakeholders to ensure compliance and seamless operations, while building high-performing teams to support sustainable growth.

  • CMA CGM (On-site)
    • Chief Executive Officer GEMALINK
      Jan 2020 - Sep 2024 · 4 yrs 9 mos

      Led the development of GEMALINK from construction through to operational ramp-up, delivering a deep-water container terminal in Cai Mep (Vietnam), a joint venture between CMA Terminals (CMA CGM Group) and GEMADEPT, designed to accommodate the world’s largest vessels. Successfully transitioned from project delivery to full operations, achieving rapid growth with 1 million TEUs handled within the first year and scaling to nearly 2 million TEUs annually by 2025—less than five years after opening—while surpassing 5 million cumulative TEUs.

    • General Manager TGO (Terminal du Grand Ouest)
      Sep 2015 - Jan 2020 · 4 yrs 5 mos

      Led the transformation of Terminal du Grand Ouest (TGO), a container and general cargo terminal at the Port of Nantes–Saint Nazaire, backed by Terminal Link (CMA CGM / China Merchants Ports) and Bolloré Ports. Drove customer-centric innovation through the development of digital solutions such as EasyGate, enhancing fluidity and user experience at the terminal. Led the diversification strategy towards higher-value activities, notably through the development of port industrial logistics solutions (EasyLog). Modernized operations by upgrading key equipment, including the acquisition of a new STS crane, and improved cost efficiency and performance through the outsourcing of ReachStacker maintenance and workshop activities.

  • Managing Director at FAUVEDER GROUP
    Apr 2012 - Aug 2015 · 3 yrs 5 mos

    Led the international development of Fauveder Group, a €100m family-owned logistics company specialized in temperature-controlled transportation. Structured and financed the Group’s overseas expansion, including the successful IPO in 2014, while strengthening equity and funding capabilities. Drove profitable growth with a +14% increase in overseas gross margin and significant EBITDA improvement. Diversified activities by launching new logistics solutions and business lines (cross-trade, commodities desks, LCL reefer, project cargo), and expanded the global footprint through the creation of international offices (including Shanghai) and a strong network of partners. Modernized operations through the implementation of route-based management, executive governance structures, and a collaborative digital platform (CheckMyBox), enhancing performance, visibility, and customer engagement.

  • Chief Strategy & Finance Officer at Groupe IZIMMO
    Aug 2010 - Apr 2012 · 1 yr 9 mos

    • Advisor to the Strategic Committee including Investors (Investment Funds) • Define and implement the Group’s Strategy • Manage the Finance, HR, Quality, Legal, Project Management and IT departments • Implement high performance financial steering tools to analyze business data • Business plans, strategic evaluation, finance analysis, budget control and forecasts • Raise funds (debt, equity) and manage M&A operations with Investment Funds