CMA CGM UAE has announced the appointment of Capt. Swaminathan Rajagopalan as its managing director, effective March 1, 2025. With a distinguished career spanning over three decades in the shipping and logistics industry, Capt. Swaminathan brings a wealth of experience to his new role.
Capt. Swaminathan began his maritime journey in 1990, sailing various vessel types, including dry bulk, tankers, Ro-Ro, multipurpose, and container carriers. After 17 years at sea—five of which he served as master—he transitioned ashore to explore the broader transportation ecosystem. His expertise spans field sales, trade, capacity and pricing, and commercial operations, having previously held senior roles at MSC Agency India and CMA CGM India.
Most recently, he served as Deputy Managing Director of CMA CGM India and, before that, as Commercial Director for eight years. In addition to his corporate leadership, Capt. Swaminathan is actively involved in the academic and professional development of the industry. He is a member of the Governing Council of NMIS, a visiting faculty at the Narottam Morarjee Institute of Shipping (NMIS), and has contributed to ASSOCHAM’s Shipping and Logistics Working Group.
In his new role, Capt. Swaminathan will drive strategic growth, strengthen regional operations, and reinforce CMA CGM’s leadership in the UAE. His deep industry knowledge and leadership will play a pivotal role in advancing the company’s vision in the region.