Bermuda Container Line Ltd has announced the appointment of George Hutchings to its board of directors. Mr Hutchings has also been named deputy chairman, the company said.

BCL plays a crucial role in the delivery of ocean freight to Bermuda, operating a weekly service between Port Elizabeth, New Jersey, and the Hamilton docks using the MV Oleander.

Through an associated company, Somers Isles Shipping Ltd, it also operates a service between Fernandina Beach, Florida, and Hamilton.

John Wight, the chairman of BCL, said: “George brings a wealth of experience and expertise to our organisation following a successful career, most recently as senior vice-president and special adviser at Everen Ltd, formerly Oil Insurance Ltd.

“He has a proven track record that will benefit BCL greatly.”

Mr Hutchings has had a career in the insurance industry. Skilled in financial risk, enterprise risk management, risk management, corporate finance and banking, he has been a business development professional with a Master of Business Administration in Entrepreneurship from the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School.

He stepped down as chief operating officer of the energy mutual in 2023, but remained as special adviser until his retirement at the end of the year.

He then took to LinkedIn, with the remark: “Retirement is not the end of a career, but the beginning of a new life filled with adventure while thoroughly enjoying life with family and friends. It has only been one day, but I highly recommend it!”

Today, commenting on his senior board appointment at BCL, Mr Hutchings said: “I am honoured to join the board of Bermuda Container Line Ltd as deputy chairman. BCL plays a vital role in Bermuda’s supply chain and economic resilience, and I look forward to working with my fellow directors and management to support the company’s long-term success and continued service to the island.”

BCL began in 1979, providing a stable and continuous service between the East Coast of the United States and Bermuda, which is vital for importing goods and maintaining economic connections.

BCL’s critical role in sustaining Bermuda's economy is rooted in ensuring the island's ability to import essential goods from the US.