IBIA Opens Landmark 2026 Board Elections, with decarbonization, digitalization, and regulation converging, IBIA members prepare to elect the leaders who will guide the industry forward.
London | January 5, 2026 – As the global maritime sector stands at a historic crossroads between traditional fuels and a multi-fuel future, the International Bunker Industry Association (IBIA) has officially triggered the commencement of its 2026 Board Elections.
With the industry facing intensified scrutiny over decarbonization pathways and digital transparency, the individuals elected this year will be tasked with steering the world’s premier bunkering NGO through what many are calling the “Decade of Delivery.” This election sees eleven visionary leaders competing for four pivotal seats on the Board, a field whose diversity reflects the truly borderless nature of modern bunkering.
Meet the Candidates: Architects of a New Era
The 2026 shortlist represents the entire bunker value chain, from legal giants and technical pioneers to the “Oil Majors.”
- Dr. Bader Bhaishan AlBusaiyes (Saudi Arabia): Founder of AlSuwaiket & AlBusaiyes Lawyers Co. A legal heavyweight championing robust governance and transparency to navigate the sector’s complex transition.
- Eugenia Benavides (Colombia): An independent consultant and veteran of the Latin American market. Her platform focuses on inclusive decision-making and ensuring regional suppliers have a seat at the global table.
- Claudia Beumer (Netherlands): Owner of C4 Fuel B.V. and a specialist in Mass Flow Meter (MFM) technology. She is a vocal advocate for technical integrity and the professionalization of fuel measurement.
- Gianmichele Campanella (Monaco): General Manager at Fratelli Cosulich. Bringing a market-driven perspective, he focuses on the practicalities of transitioning the Mediterranean fleet to alternative molecules.
- Calvin Chung (Hong Kong): Director at CPN (Chimbusco Pan Nation). A leader in efficiency and sustainability, Chung seeks to bridge the gap between Asian markets and global decarbonization goals.
- Nigel Draffin (United Kingdom): Consultant, lecturer, and IBIA founding member. Draffin offers continuity and education, ensuring foundational technical knowledge remains a priority amidst rapid change.
- Samir Fernandez (Spain): Director of Marine Fuel Solutions at Moeve. A Master Mariner turned executive, he advocates for digitalization and smart data to drive operational transparency.
- George Masvoulas (Greece): Group Managing Director at Petro Inspect Group. His campaign centers on accountability and compliance, strengthening the role of independent technical advisors.
- Julie Nielsen (Denmark): Global Head of Bunker Sales at StormGeo AS. A specialist in optimization, Nielsen aims to integrate bunker procurement with advanced voyage planning to hit emission targets.
- Carlos Torres (Denmark): Global Head of Methanol at Bunker Holding A/S. A key figure in alternative fuel scaling, Torres is focused on the infrastructure required for green methanol and ammonia.
- Susu Zhang (United Kingdom): Head of Shipping Projects & Partnerships at BP. Representing the “Energy Major” perspective, she emphasizes the need for unified industry voices in high-level policy discussions.
Why the Stakes Have Never Been Higher
The 2026 Board will inherit a mandate to bridge the gap between regional regulations and global standards. As the industry grapples with the implementation of new carbon levies and the scaling of green methanol and ammonia, IBIA’s role as the “voice of the industry” in London and Singapore has never been more vital.
“This election is about more than just representation,” says one industry analyst. “It is about selecting the architects who will design the framework for how we bunker the world’s fleet for the next thirty years.”
The Road to the AGM
The democratic process is already underway, conducted via a secure, independent platform to ensure total integrity.
| Milestone | Date & Detail |
| Voting Closes | Thursday, 5 February 2026 (12:00 GMT) |
| The Announcement | Monday, 9 February 2026 (IBIA AGM, London) |
| Term Commencement | 1 April 2026 |
Call to Action
IBIA has confirmed that voting links were distributed to all corporate and individual members in good standing via CES (takepart (at) cesvotes.com). For those who have not yet received their credentials, the Association’s secretariat remains on standby to ensure every voice in the value chain is heard.
In an era of unprecedented change, the message to the industry is clear: The future of bunkering is on the ballot. Cast your vote.
IBIA in Brief
The International Bunker Industry Association (IBIA) is the authoritative voice of the global bunker industry, representing all sectors and stakeholders across the marine fuels value chain.
- Founded: 1993
- Membership: Shipowners, charterers, bunker suppliers, traders, brokers, ports, regulators, service providers, and marine energy industry stakeholders worldwide.
- Mission & Role:
- Foster collaboration and professionalism across the industry
- Promote education and best practices
- Uphold high standards of conduct
- Provide a platform for discussion, guidance, and advocacy
- Engagement: Actively participates with other industry bodies, national and international policymakers, and legislators, including the International Maritime Organization (IMO), where IBIA holds consultative NGO status
- Global Forum: Offers a comprehensive platform to address challenges and opportunities in the bunker industry, ensuring the industry’s voice influences the future of marine fuels and maritime regulation
- Offices: UK, South Africa, Singapore
Source: International Bunker Industry Association (IBIA)