Madhav Kurup Named Global COO at Hellmann Worldwide Logistics
Kurup will play a crucial role in driving operational excellence and strategic growth for Hellmann Worldwide Logistics on a global scale.
Madhav Kurup, a Dubai-based Regional CEO, has been promoted to the position of Global Chief Operating Officer (COO) at Hellmann Worldwide Logistics. This marks a groundbreaking achievement as he becomes the first non-German to be appointed to a global C-suite role in the company’s history.
Key Responsibilities in the New Role
In his capacity as COO, Kurup joins the four-member Executive Management Team responsible for steering Hellmann on a global scale. His new role includes overseeing the global product organization for air freight, sea freight, and contract logistics. Additionally, he will manage the global profit and loss (P&L) performance of these three divisions, with each led by specialized global product heads.
UAE’s Strategic Role Highlighted
Hellmann’s decision to base Kurup in Dubai underscores the UAE’s importance as a strategic hub for international businesses. The nation’s world-class connectivity, robust infrastructure, and dynamic business environment make it an ideal location for global operations.
A Journey of 25 Years in the UAE
Kurup’s professional journey began 25 years ago when he moved from India to Dubai to join a UAE-based logistics company. Within eight years, he rose to the position of Group General Manager. In 2008, he joined Hellmann Worldwide Logistics as CEO of the Middle East, where he rapidly transformed the logistics market. His leadership later expanded to include the IMEA (India, Middle East, and Africa) region, where he spearheaded strategic growth and established offices across multiple countries.
Visionary Leadership and Workforce Growth
Under Kurup’s 16 years of leadership, Hellmann’s workforce in the IMEA region grew from 100 to over 2,000 employees. His innovative strategies and focus on market transformation have left a lasting impact on the company. In his new role, Kurup will remain based in Dubai while frequently travelling to Germany to oversee global operations.
Pioneering Initiatives in Logistics
Kurup’s tenure at Hellmann has been marked by several pioneering initiatives. He led the development of specialized logistics solutions through strategic joint ventures in the UAE, catering to sectors such as automotive, chemical, healthcare, and e-commerce. Notably, he launched Hellmann’s first road freight entity outside Europe, focusing on cross-border trucking within the GCC region.
This new appointment reflects both Kurup’s exceptional contributions to Hellmann and the growing prominence of the UAE as a logistics and business hub.
On his promotion to Global COO, Madhav Kurup said: "I am honoured to lead the global operations and further strengthen the remarkable legacy of Hellmann. Coming from a humble background has given me a deeper understanding of people and the complexities of society, which is crucial at a global leadership level. For me, it’s all about translating ideas into effective operating models, building strong teams, and prioritising people development.”
While talking about the UAE market, he added: “Hellmann UAE is already a market leader in automotive, healthcare and sea–air operations. The UAE will continue to be a major market for Hellmann by further expanding its established verticals and strengthening its e-commerce and chemical operations. In fact, Dubai, in particular, stands out as a major hub for global professionals, thanks to its advanced logistics infrastructure and the exceptional living conditions it offers.”
Comments