KMSS Appoints New President

Per Branstad, has completed his 2 year assignment to organize and integrate the three companies which together now comprise an important part of Kongsberg’s Marine and Offshore Operations. Branstad will now return to his specialist field within Kongsberg in the development of the Maritime Training Business. Commenting on the company’s performance during his tenure as President Per said “KMSS has continued to expand & reinforce its positive market position since the merger two years ago and I am delighted to hand over a fit enterprise to an enthusiastic new president. I am confident he will continue to develop the company world wide on the foundations he now inherits.” Lars GØrvell-Dahll takes up the role as President of KMSS, setting his sights firmly on developing the company worldwide and especially within the Asian market, which is already the centre of the world ship building industry. Lars is highly experienced in international ship building having worked for many years based in Indonesia, Singapore and Hong Kong. After graduating from the Royal Norwegian Naval Academy he spent 5 years in the Navy reaching Lt Commander and Chief Engineer. It was during his period as a Navy diver that Lars became a keen scuba diver, a hobby that he still pursues. In preparation for a commercial career Lars completed an economics degree before entering the Offshore and Shipping industry, with international postings first in West Africa then on to Indonesia building fishing vessels. In 1990 he joined the Kvaerner Group to build a new yard in Singapore, which became a leading builder of aluminium passenger catamarans. After seven years in Asia he returned to Norway using his experience to build aluminium passenger catamarans in his home country. He was later made President of the Kaeverner Leirvik yard building specialized Steel vessels. He has also found time to recently complete an MBA in global eManagement. Commenting on his appointment, Lars said, “Joining KMSS is exciting. I am joining a highly successful team manufacturing an extensive range of sensors and systems, from fire control, engine & bridge systems, to simulators and eLearning. While my practical knowledge of running a ship and experience in shipbuilding will undoubtedly be useful in the tasks ahead, I am looking forward to also using my sales and marketing experience. Over the years I believe I have gained a good understanding for the importance of respecting business cultures and the fruitful relationships with International ship operators and builders.”