VIKING Life-Saving Equipment, CEO Henrik Uhd Christensen, has passed away after a short period of illness.
He was 54 years old and leaves behind his wife and two adult sons.
After gaining a Masters’ degree in Business Administration (MBA) from Henley Business School and a Graduate Diploma in Business Administration (Marketing Management) from the University of Southern Denmark, Henrik joined VIKING in export sales in 1992.
In 1996 he was stationed in Hamburg, Germany, as MD and in 2000, he was appointed global sales and marketing director and moved back to Denmark. He was appointed VIKING CEO in 2010.
In a statement, Jens Lindholm, Chairman of the Board, Gert Lillebæk, CFO and Vagn Pedersen, Sr. Vice President Regions said they were very saddened by the news of Henrik’s death and called for his memory to be honoured.
Tributes
Tributes and accolades have been flowing in for Henrik. Kevin Momme Vice President Asia, Middle East and Oceania for VIKING said: “He was more than a boss, he was a mentor, a true leader, and a real VIKING.
“He had a vision for this company, and he worked tirelessly to make it a reality. He motivated us all with his enthusiasm, his honesty, and his ambition.
“He dedicated his life to making this VIKING a success, and he inspired us all with his passion, his integrity, and his drive for success. He was not only a great CEO, but also a great human being.
“We will miss him dearly, and we will honour his legacy by continuing his work and upholding his values. He left us too soon, but he will never be forgotten – he will always be in our hearts.”
And Evy Bro, VIKING ambassador, said: “VIKING has lost a giant who will always be remembered for his strong vision. Henrik has always been ready to knock on the door for a little chat. “The thoughts recall memories of a very fine, capable, orderly and generous person whom I am very touched to lose.”
VIKING, which had a three billion in turnover in 2022, more than 300 million in earnings and more than 3,000 employees, will be provisionally headed by the Executive Board consisting of Chief Financial Officer Gert Lillebæk and Senior Vice President Regions Vagn Pedersen, who will temporarily take over Henrik’s responsibilities and tasks.
