Burkhard D. Sommer
Director, Deputy Head of the Maritime Competence Center Hamburg - PwC Germany
Burkhard D. Sommer is a highly experienced international expert in the shipping, transport, and logistics industry, with over 20 years of deep involvement in projects across container shipping, cruise lines, shipyards, rail, aviation, defence, freight forwarding, and ship financing. Throughout his career, he has advised a broad spectrum of clients, including major global corporations, mid-sized companies, financial institutions, and private equity investors.
He brings extensive expertise in strategic consultancy, due diligence, corporate restructuring, and valuation projects. Burkhard has played a key role in several of the largest mergers and acquisitions in the shipping sector in recent years, advising both buy- and sell-side transactions. In addition, he has led numerous assignments on internal controls, forensic investigations, process optimization, and financial analysis for leading shipping companies, shipyards, and financing banks.
As PwC Germany’s coordinator for maritime activities, Burkhard advises ship financing banks, private equity funds, and shipping companies globally, providing insight on business planning, market development, financial performance, impairment testing, and restructuring solutions. His extensive industry knowledge combines strategic, financial, operational, and regulatory perspectives, making him a highly valued advisor in complex turnaround and transition situations.
A frequent speaker at international industry conferences and business schools, Burkhard is also author and co-author of multiple studies on maritime industry trends, shipping finance, and the digital transformation of maritime logistics. Known for his strong business development skills, leadership, and hands-on approach, he is a widely recognized thought leader in the global maritime and logistics community.
At A'Pelago Initiative Day 1, Burkhard will join the panel on Ocean Tech, contributing his deep industry expertise to the discussion on the future of the ocean tech solutions and maritime sector.