KUALA LUMPUR (March 23): Troubled Bumi Armada Bhd has announced it appointed Dutch national Leon Andre Harland as its new chief executive officer (CEO). He will take office on May 16.

In a filing with Bursa Malaysia today, the company said Harland, 46, will take over from acting CEO Chan Chee Beng, 60, who assumed the temporary position in January.

Harland's arrival comes on the heels of challenges faced by Bumi Armada relating to the recent termination notice by Woodside Energy Julimar Pty Ltd to the former's wholly-owned unit Armada Bainaves Pte Ltd for the charter of the Armada Claire floating production, storage and offloading (FPSO) unit in north-western Australia.

Bumi Armada has since filed a lawsuit against Woodside Energy for multiple claims.

Harland is currently Heerema Marine Contractors Nederland SE's (HMC) commercial and technology executive vice president and board member.

He has joint responsibility for HMC's performance, and direct responsibility for all commercial, contracting, engineering and innovation initiatives.

"He is recognised for being an outstanding leader who drives business success through teamwork, enthusiasm and innovation," it said, adding that Harland is experienced in leading a large and reputable offshore contractor.

Harland also possesses an in-depth understanding of the FPSO and floating liquefied natural gas segments.

These segments are seen as key assets to drive Bumi Armada towards growth, operational excellence and strategic partnerships with clients and stakeholders.

"He holds a Master of Science Degree — Civil (Offshore) Engineering from Delft University of Technology," Bumi Armada said, adding that Harland used to work with the world's largest FPSO operator SBM Offshore N.V.

Meanwhile, Chan, who possesses 2.5 million shares or 0.03% interest in the company, will return to his former position as non-executive director, said Bumi Armada.

The company's shares closed unchanged at 80 sen today for a market capitalisation of RM4.69 billion.