Dubai, July 2025 – Glander International Bunkering, a leading provider of marine fuel and bunkering services, proudly celebrates its CEO, Carsten Ladekjaer, as he marks a significant milestone: 30 years of pioneering leadership in the global marine fuels industry, all within the Bunker Holding Group. Carsten’s remarkable journey reflects both his personal dedication and the sweeping evolution of the bunkering sector itself.
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From Fax Machines to Digital Platforms: Navigating Technological Change
Carsten’s career began in 1995 at Dan-Bunkering, a time when the bunkering business depended heavily on telephone, fax, and gut instinct to close deals. Over the years, he has witnessed and led the sector’s rapid technological transformation — from manual order books to sophisticated digital trading platforms that enhance market transparency and operational efficiency.
His early days trading by fax laid the groundwork for a strategic mindset focused on adapting to market shifts and embracing innovation to better serve global shipping clients in today’s complex, data-driven fuel markets.
Strengths Forged Over a Distinguished Career: From Trader to Global Leader
Carsten’s ascent from a bunker trader to the CEO of one of the world’s foremost bunkering companies highlights his exceptional strengths in strategic vision, leadership, and operational excellence. Over his career, he has held pivotal roles including Senior Vice President at Dan-Bunkering, Managing Director and CEO at International Bunkering Middle East DMCC, and CEO at KPI Bridge Oil before taking the helm at Glander International Bunkering in 2017.
His ability to navigate complex global markets, cultivate strong relationships, and inspire teams has been instrumental in his rise and in Glander’s sustained growth and reputation.
Leading Through Industry Evolution and Regulatory Change
The bunkering landscape has undergone seismic shifts during Carsten’s tenure, including the global push toward sustainability driven by regulations like IMO 2020 and the EU’s FuelEU Maritime initiative.
Carsten’s leadership was instrumental in positioning Glander International Bunkering to meet evolving client demands, integrating compliance frameworks, and fostering transparency across complex supply chains. His steady guidance ensured the company remained agile amid tightening environmental standards and emerging market dynamics.
Champion of Team Building and Collaborative Leadership
Carsten’s leadership is distinguished not only by commercial vision but by his unwavering commitment to people. Known for his empathy, clarity, and hands-on guidance, he has cultivated a workplace culture where collaboration, integrity, and personal growth thrive.
Under his leadership, Glander International Bunkering earned the prestigious Great Place to Work® certification, reflecting the strong sense of trust, purpose, and team spirit across the organization. Carsten is widely respected as a mentor and team player who takes the time to support, develop, and stand beside his people — shaping not just a high-performing business, but a resilient and inspired workforce.
As Glander International Bunkering CFO David Varghese put it:
“Carsten leads with empathy, clarity, and strategic foresight — and always pushes us to aim higher.”
Driving the Energy Transition in Bunkering
Under Carsten’s leadership, Glander International Bunkering has proactively adapted to the marine fuel industry’s decarbonisation agenda. From the early days of navigating IMO 2020 regulations to embracing LNG, biofuels, and carbon offsets, the company has positioned itself as a forward-thinking supplier.
Among its initiatives, Glander International Bunkering actively promotes ISCC-certified marine fuels, ensuring traceability, sustainability, and transparency in low-carbon fuel supply chains. Carsten’s long-term strategic foresight has enabled the company to offer clients not just fuel, but a roadmap to future-ready marine energy solutions.
Expanding a Global Footprint
Throughout his career, Carsten has played a central role in expanding Bunker Holding’s presence worldwide. From anchoring operations in the Middle East, to strengthening commercial reach across Europe, Asia, and the Americas, his leadership has helped build one of the most trusted networks in marine fuel supply.
His international impact is evident not only in market share — but in long-term client relationships forged on consistency, integrity, and trust.
Voice of the Industry
Carsten’s influence extends beyond corporate walls. He has served as a visible and respected voice in industry discussions, participating in panels, leadership forums, and conferences focused on bunkering regulation, decarbonisation, and maritime compliance.
His insights are sought after by peers and partners alike — as the sector navigates digitisation, geopolitical risks, and the low-carbon transition.
A Legacy of Loyalty and Leadership
At a time when careers span companies and sectors, 30 years in one industry — and one group — is rare. Carsten’s journey reflects more than ambition; it reflects belief. Belief in the role of bunkering in global trade. Belief in building with integrity. And belief in the people who power this industry, from the back office to the bridge.
Celebrating a Rare Milestone
We take this moment not only to celebrate Carsten Ladekjær’s extraordinary milestone — but to recognize the wider bunkering community that makes such careers possible.
His story is a testament to what can be built over time: trust, vision, and impact.
To Carsten Ladekjær: thank you for your leadership, your example, and your 30 years of shaping the future of global marine fuels.
About Glander International Bunkering
Founded in 1961, Glander International Bunkering is a leading provider of marine fuel and bunkering services. The company serves a wide range of sectors, including container shipping, offshore operations, tankers, tug and barge services, bulkers, navy fleets, cruise lines, yachts, and fishing vessels. With offices strategically located around the world, Glander provides global expertise and market coverage to the maritime industry.
With a strong focus on sustainable marine fuel solutions and commitment to integrity and professionalism, Glander International Bunkering continues to play a vital role in helping the maritime industry transition toward cleaner energy sources.
Source Glander