Kommer Damen was awarded the coveted Lifetime Achievement Award during the Maritime Awards Gala in Rotterdam, from Bas Ort (NMT) as representative of the Dutch maritime sector.
Kommer Damen took the helm of the family-run Damen Shipyard Group in 1969, assuming the role which was passed down from his father and uncle. Kommer Damen, now aged 78, is still internationally active and acts as Chairman of the Supervisory Board for Damen Shipyard Group.
The award was presented to Damen in recognition of his vision and drive on both the shipbuilding and business front, which has fuelled momentous growth. When Damen joined the Group in 1969, the builder had just one facility. Now it proudly boasts 70 facilities, 35 of which are new construction and refit yards, dotted around the world. 
During the award ceremony, Damen was celebrated not only for his work, but also for his role in the Dutch maritime industry more generally and his commitment to arts and culture. Damen is involved in many enterprises, including the Nederlands Dans Theater, and is a member of maritime councils around the world.
Damen remains a family-run organisation, with Kommer Damen’s children now assuming the top-tier management level. Annelies Damen is a member of the Supervisory Board; Arnout Damen is CEO of Damen Shipyards Group; Rose Damen is Managing Director at Damen Yachting; and Bear Damen is an advisor to the company.
Photo: Damen ShipyardsDamen Shipyard Group has around 12,000 employees and has built more than 6,000 ships, with an average of 175 deliveries per year. According to SYT iQ, Damen Yachting currently has six projects in-build. The largest of which is the 75.2-metre Custom DY 75 Hybrid, scheduled for delivery in 2024.