June 27, 2025, Denmark — Bunker Holding has named industry veteran Kenneth Juhls as the new CEO of AuctionConnect, effective July 1, 2025. With over 25 years of experience in maritime shipping, trading, and digital transformation, Juhls will lead the platform’s next phase of global expansion and innovation in bunker procurement.
In a bold move signaling strong confidence in digital innovation within the bunkering sector, Bunker Holding Group, one of the world’s largest suppliers of marine fuels, has appointed Juhls to accelerate AuctionConnect’s growth and reinforce its position as a premier digital platform revolutionizing bunker fuel procurement worldwide.
AuctionConnect’s Chairman, Michael Krabbe, highlighted the strategic importance of this appointment:
“Kenneth Juhls is a standout profile in the maritime digital space. His deep industry knowledge, strategic clarity, and commercial edge make him the ideal person to take AuctionConnect to the next level. We are proud to have attracted such a strong profile, and we look forward to seeing him shape the next phase of AuctionConnect’s growth journey.”
A Leader with Extensive Industry Experience
Kenneth Juhls brings over 25 years of comprehensive experience within shipping and trading sectors, with a particular focus on maritime digital innovation and bunker fuel optimisation. Prior to joining AuctionConnect, he served as Senior Vice President and Global Head of Customer Success and Partnerships at ZeroNorth, a leading digital platform for shipping and bunker procurement. There, he was instrumental in scaling ZeroNorth’s bunker optimisation platform as Managing Director of ZeroNorth Bunker.
In addition to his corporate roles, Juhls is actively engaged in industry-wide digitalisation efforts. He chairs the IBIA Digitalisation Working Group and serves on the board of the IBIA European Board. His extensive network and leadership in these groups will be invaluable as AuctionConnect seeks to enhance transparency, trust, and efficiency within bunker fuel procurement.
Steering AuctionConnect Through Industry Transformation
The bunker industry is currently facing significant transformation amid the global energy transition and evolving environmental regulations. AuctionConnect, under Juhls’ leadership, plans to leverage digital tools and data-driven solutions to help industry participants navigate increasing complexity.
Kenneth Juhls, CEO of AuctionConnect, emphasized his vision for the company:
“AuctionConnect is already a strong platform with a proven customer base and real traction in the market. Our industry is transforming, and I strongly believe strong data, digital tools and platforms will help all market participants navigate the increasing complexity. I look forward to engaging with all parts of the industry to drive real and meaningful change, form partnerships and first and foremost deliver value to our customers. I am excited to build on the strong foundation already in place.”
Transition in Leadership
With Juhls’ appointment, Per Funch-Nielsen will step down as CEO of AuctionConnect. Chairman Michael Krabbe expressed gratitude for Funch-Nielsen’s leadership:
“Per Funch-Nielsen has been instrumental in developing the platform and we extend our sincere thanks for his strong commitment and leadership. We wish him all the best in his future endeavours.”
About AuctionConnect
AuctionConnect is an innovative digital platform revolutionizing bunker auctions by delivering efficient, transparent, and scalable solutions. The platform digitalises complex auction processes by turning real-time data into actionable insights, enabling faster pricing decisions, improved customer service, and enhanced bargaining power.
Owned by Bunker Holding—a key player within the family-owned United Shipping and Trading Company (USTC)—AuctionConnect benefits from a robust backing. USTC operates across 38 countries with a diverse portfolio spanning oil & energy, shipping, logistics, risk management, automotive, IT, and sustainable energy sectors, employing more than 4,500 professionals worldwide.
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