---

Terminal storage operator Royal Vopak has announced that its chief financial officer (CFO) and vice chairman of the executive board, Jack de Kreij, has decided to step down from 1st February 2018, once the 2017 financial year has closed.

De Kreij, aged 57, has served as Vopak's chief financial officer and vice chairman of the executive board since January 2003.

In a statement, Vopak said: "The Supervisory Board of Royal Vopak takes this early opportunity to thank Jack de Kreij for his significant contributions to the company," whilst adding that the supervisory board "respects his decision".

"By announcing his departure at this early date, there will be ample time to identify a successor and to ensure an appropriate transfer of duties," the company stated.

Commenting on the news, De Kreij said: "I have served in the Executive Board since January 2003 and after an inspiring period and successful growth of the company, I deem it a natural moment to transfer my duties after 15 years in 2018, in order to start a next phase in my professional life including Supervisory Board positions at TomTom and Corbion."