DFDS appoints new Chief People Officer
Erika Markvardsen is appointed Chief People Officer at DFDS as Anne-Christine Ahrenkiel is stepping down from her position to pursue an opportunity outside DFDS. Erika Markvardsen will formally step into her new role end of May.
Updated: 26 February 2026 | Published: 19 May 2025
Copenhagen
2 min read

Erika Markvardsen will join DFDS’ Executive Management Team, reporting to CEO Torben Carlsen. Erika Markvardsen has a strong background within HR and has been with DFDS and a part of DFDS’ People Leadership Team since 2023.
Erika Markvardsen says:
“I am honoured, and proud to be entrusted with the responsibility of leading our People Division and our people work. It is both exciting and humbling and together with all colleagues I am looking forward to securing our progress, while continuing to develop our efforts to ensure the needed support, engagement and commitment that is key to being a great place to work."
DFDS CEO Torben Carlsen says:
“I am very pleased to welcome Erika Markvardsen into her new role and the Executive Management Team. Erika brings the right set of skills, experience and personality to ensure the continued development of our organisation to the benefit of our valued people and all of DFDS. But I am also sad to see Anne Christine go – I have truly appreciated your efforts, perspectives and input and want to thank you for being a trusted advisor and colleague and for taking our People Division to a new level.”
Anne-Christine Ahrenkiel is leaving DFDS to pursue an opportunity at coating solutions company Hempel as Chief People and Culture Officer as of July 1.
“This has been a difficult decision, because while it is exciting, it also means that I will be leaving DFDS and saying goodbye to colleagues who I profoundly care for and have greatly enjoyed working with. I am truly proud of all we have accomplished together – and I am pleased to see Erika Markvardsen appointed as DFDS’ new Chief People officer – she will contribute greatly to the continued development of DFDS."
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