After a competitive search, integrated logistics company Maersk has selected Charlotte for its North American headquarters, committing to add 520 jobs to its Charlotte-based workforce.
“Charlotte has been an important part of our story here at Maersk for over two decades, and we’re proud to now make it our official North America headquarters location,” said Charles van der Steene, President, North America Region at Maersk. “The city’s strong infrastructure and talented workforce have helped drive our growth over the years. We’re excited to strengthen our commitment to Charlotte and continue building on the success we’ve achieved together.”
Maersk purchased its current space in south Charlotte in 2006. As the company’s new headquarters, it will house key corporate functions, including finance, human resources, commercial strategy and technology. The project, a $16 million capital investment, will eventually expand the company’s Charlotte workforce to more than 1,300 employees.
“I’m proud to welcome Maersk to the growing list of global companies that call Charlotte home,” Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles said. “Some of the world’s most dynamic and forward-thinking companies are headquartered in our city. With global connectivity, a talented workforce and an exceptional quality of life, Charlotte is an ideal place for leading brands to put down roots and grow.”
The company plans to hire positions in areas of logistics and supply, finance, legal, customer experience, human resources, business support and operations. Several roles will not require a college degree. The average wage is $100,962, above the MSA average.
“Maersk’s decision to invest here is a testament to Mecklenburg County’s reputation as a global center for commerce and innovation,” Mecklenburg Board of County Commissioners Chair Mark Jerrell said. “This announcement demonstrates the strength of our talented workforce, expands opportunities for our residents, and will spin off even more small businesses in the future.”
Founded in 1904, Maersk, a subsidiary of Danish Fortune Global 500 A.P. Moller-Maersk, has evolved into a comprehensive supply chain partner, offering integrated logistics solutions that span ocean and inland transportation, warehousing, customs services and digital logistics platforms. The company’s North American business employs more than 10,000 people across various operations, commercial and corporate functions, contributing to Maersk’s global workforce of around 100,000 employees.
The City of Charlotte and Mecklenburg County partnered on the project with the North Carolina Department of Commerce, the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina, the General Assembly, the North Carolina Community College System, Central Piedmont Community College, UNC Charlotte and the Charlotte Regional Business Alliance.
“Maersk’s decision to bring its North American headquarters to Charlotte speaks to North Carolina’s reputation as a top destination for global business,” Governor Josh Stein said. “We are home to a world-class workforce, and we’re proud to welcome Maersk to North Carolina – the top state for business in the country.”
Earlier this year, Site Selection magazine ranked Charlotte the No. 2 best city in the nation for headquarters based on a survey of site-selection experts. The Charlotte region is home to 19 Fortune 1000 companies.
