Recently, Christian Laurenborg, a distinguished industry leader, has joined SOCAR Trading DMCC, a global leader in energy trading and a subsidiary of the State Oil Company of Azerbaijan Republic (SOCAR), as its new Head of Fuel Oil. Christian, a veteran in the energy trading industry, brings over 20 years of experience in fuel oil and feedstocks trading across major global markets. Based in Dubai, he began his role in December 2024, stepping into the leadership position to oversee SOCAR Trading’s fuel oil operations.
Christian’s career is marked by significant leadership roles at prominent energy trading companies. Prior to joining SOCAR Trading, Christian served as the Head of Trading for the Middle East at Mercuria Energy Trading DMCC, one of the world’s leading independent energy trading firms. In this role, Christian was instrumental in driving Mercuria’s growth and refining its trading strategies across the region, helping the company solidify its position in the competitive Middle East energy market.
Before his tenure at Mercuria, Christian held senior positions at Litasco Middle East DMCC and LUKOIL Asia Pacific, where he was responsible for trading Heavy Fuel Oil (HFO) and Feedstocks in both East Africa and the Middle East. His expertise in managing complex fuel oil trades and his deep understanding of global energy markets were critical in these roles, ensuring efficiency and profitability in challenging environments.
Christian’s career began at Shell Trading, where he spent nearly five years focusing on fuels and feedstocks trading in the Middle East and Africa. His experience at Shell helped him develop a keen understanding of the global energy landscape and established the foundation for his subsequent success in the industry.
In addition, Christian’s earlier years at Maersk Oil Trading provided him with invaluable experience in fuel oil and related components trading, particularly in Europe. His work at Maersk laid the groundwork for his career, equipping him with the skills to thrive in high-stakes, fast-paced trading environments.
With his extensive background and proven leadership, Christian is poised to enhance SOCAR Trading’s fuel oil division and contribute to the company’s continued growth and success in the global energy market. His appointment underscores SOCAR Trading’s commitment to strengthening its position in traditional energy markets while navigating the evolving energy transition.
SOCAR Trading operates out of key global hubs including Geneva, London, Singapore, Dubai, and Houston, and is known for its leadership in crude oil, refined products, LNG, natural gas, and carbon trading. Christian’s expertise will be pivotal in supporting SOCAR Trading’s commitment to sustainability and innovation.
About SOCAR Trading
SOCAR Trading, a subsidiary of the State Oil Company of Azerbaijan Republic (SOCAR), is a global leader in energy trading. The company specializes in crude oil, refined products, LNG, natural gas, and carbon trading, with a commitment to sustainability and providing reliable energy solutions. Operating from major hubs such as Geneva, London, Singapore, Dubai, and Houston, SOCAR Trading is shaping the future of energy with innovation and environmental responsibility.
Source SOCAR Trading | Christian Laurenborg