We are pleased to shine the spotlight on Hernán Franchina, the new LNG Commercial Leader at YPF, Argentina’s leading energy company. A seasoned professional with extensive experience in energy, bunkering, and maritime strategy, Franchina takes on this critical role at a pivotal time for Argentina’s growing LNG sector. His appointment is set to accelerate YPF’s LNG ambitions and solidify the country’s position in the global energy market.
A Career Built on Energy and Shipping Expertise
Franchina’s journey in the fuel and shipping industry spans over 15 years, making him a well-recognized figure in the global bunkering and energy trading landscape. Before joining YPF, he was a Senior Trader at Baseblue for over 15 years, where he specialized in bunker fuel supply, risk management, and commercial negotiations.
His career also includes experience at Evergreen Line, a major player in global container shipping, where he honed his expertise in logistics and market dynamics. Over the years, Franchina has built a strong reputation for strategic trading, relationship management, and energy market analysis—all key skills that will contribute to his new role at YPF.
Educational Background: A Foundation of Expertise in Energy, Maritime, and Business Strategy
Hernán Franchina’s educational background reflects his commitment to continuous learning and expertise in energy, maritime, and business strategy. He is currently pursuing a Master of Business Administration (MBA) at the Pontificia Universidad Católica Argentina ‘Santa María de los Buenos Aires’, a program that builds on his solid foundation in strategic leadership and business management.
Franchina also holds a degree in Financial Options and Futures Trading from Universidad Tecnológica Nacional and has specialized in Negotiation through additional studies at Pontificia Universidad Católica Argentina. His education further includes Strategic Marketing from Universidad Torcuato Di Tella and deep technical knowledge of the energy sector, having studied Industrialisation and Petroleum Economics at the Instituto Tecnológico de Buenos Aires.
Notably, Franchina’s expertise in LNG is further strengthened by his studies in Natural Gas & LNG from Instituto Tecnológico de Buenos Aires. His career and education converge to make him an invaluable asset to YPF as the company embarks on its LNG-driven future.
Argentina LNG: A Landmark Project in the Energy Transition
Franchina steps into his leadership role at YPF as the company spearheads Argentina LNG, an integrated project that covers the entire LNG value chain, from natural gas production at Vaca Muerta to liquefaction and global trade. Argentina LNG is expected to significantly boost the country’s energy exports, strengthen regional LNG supply, and increase its presence in the global LNG market.
Given the shipping industry’s growing demand for alternative fuels, Franchina’s expertise in LNG trading and commercial development will be instrumental in positioning YPF as a key player in the LNG bunkering sector.
LNG and the Future of Bunkering in South America
With the IMO’s decarbonization targets pushing the maritime industry towards cleaner fuels, LNG is increasingly seen as a viable alternative. South America’s LNG infrastructure is expanding, and Argentina has the potential to become a key supplier of LNG bunker fuel to vessels operating in the Atlantic and Pacific trade routes.
Franchina’s background in bunkering and oil trading, along with his education from top Argentinian institutions, makes him well-equipped to navigate the commercial landscape of LNG bunker supply. His appointment could pave the way for YPF to expand its footprint in LNG bunkering, providing shipowners and operators with a reliable alternative fuel supply in the region.
About YPF
YPF is Argentina’s leading energy company, with operations spanning oil, gas, and renewable energy. The company plays a crucial role in developing the nation’s energy infrastructure, including the Argentina LNG project, which aims to position the country as a major LNG exporter. With a commitment to innovation and sustainability, YPF is actively investing in cleaner fuel solutions to support the global energy transition.
Stay tuned for more Trader’s Spotlight features as we continue to highlight key professionals shaping the future of bunkering and maritime energy markets.
Source YPF | Hernán Franchina