The International Bunker and Industry Association (IBIA) on Wednesday (6 November) announced the formation of its European Regional Board, marking the completion of the association’s commitment to establish five regional boards globally. 

IBIA said the new board will play a vital role in fostering collaboration across the European bunker and shipping industry, addressing key regional issues, and supporting IBIA’s mission to promote a fair and sustainable marine fuel landscape.

The European Regional Board will be chaired by Charlotte Rojgaard, Global Marine Fuels Director at Bureau Veritas Verifuel.

She will be joined by influential industry leaders: John Stirling, Director of Marine Technical at World Fuel Services; Kenneth Juhls, Managing Director at ZeroNorth Bunker; Andrea Realfonzo from Grimaldi Group’s Corporate Bunker & Chartering Department; Sofia Furstenberg Stott, Partner at Furstenberg Maritime Advisory; Peter Grunwaldt, Vice President at Hafnia; Jan Christensen, Senior Director, Fuels, Lubricants & Chemicals, Hapag-Lloyd AG and Capt John Ghio, CEO & Captain of the Port, Gibraltar.

Charlotte Rojgaard said: “It is an honour to lead IBIA’s European Regional Board, where we have a unique opportunity to drive meaningful progress on issues specific to Europe’s diverse and dynamic bunker industry.”

“With this team, we are well-equipped to tackle both today’s challenges and tomorrow’s opportunities in marine fuels and environmental stewardship.”

Related: IBIA supports local needs with the forming of Regional Boards

Photo credit: International Bunker and Industry Association
Published: 8 November, 2024

The International Bunker Industry Association (IBIA) on Friday (25 October) said it is arranging an election to replace board members whose term will be ending on 31 March 2025. 

IBIA added there will be four vacancies and these elections are an opportunity for IBIA members to seek election to the board and take part in the running of the Association.

“Members of IBIA are invited to propose candidates for election who in their opinion will make a meaningful contribution to the running of the Association,” the association said on its website. 

“Prospective Board Members should be aware that being a Board Member is not just a titular position; they are expected to take an active part in the activities of the Association.”

Candidates for the election to the Board must:

•       Consent to stand for election
•       Be paid-up members of the Association
•       Be proposed and seconded by paid-up Members of the Association
•       Complete and return the nomination form

Completed forms must be delivered to the Secretariat no later than Friday 13 December 2024 via email to [email protected].

Nominations received after the closing date will not be accepted.

Here are copies of the Responsibilities of IBIA Board Members and to download the nomination form click: IBIA Board Election Nomination Form.

Note: Copies of the Responsibilities of IBIA Board Members can be found here and the IBIA Board Election Nomination Form can be downloaded here. Prospective candidates should also look at the Bye-Laws, particularly Sections 12-15.

Photo credit: International Bunker Industry Association
Published: 28 October 2024

The Singapore Shipping Association (SSA) on Friday (18 October) announced the appointment of Mr Loh Chun How as its Executive Director effective 18 November 2024.

As Executive Director of the key trade association serving the interests of over 500 businesses in Singapore’s shipping industry and other sectors allied to the industry, he will oversee the day-to-day operations of the Secretariat office. 

In his role, he will champion members’ interests by engaging key stakeholders through various industry working groups and committees to harmonise relations and priorities between the Shipping community and Government regulators and agencies.

Mr Loh brings over 25 years of experience in the maritime and logistics sectors, with an extensive track record in both local and international markets.

“With a global outlook gained through his 17 years of overseas experience in key markets, Mr Loh has successfully navigated complex environments and built robust international partnerships, earning him recognition as a global leader in the maritime industry,” SSA said in a statement. 

His deep insights into the industry's challenges and opportunities will enable SSA to effectively engage with its key stakeholders and collaborate closely with government agencies to further promote the interests of its members.

Mr Loh shared, “I am thrilled to be joining the Singapore Shipping Association at such an exciting time for the maritime industry as it advances the decarbonisation and digitalisation agenda.”

“SSA’s mission to serve and promote the interests of its members, while advancing Singapore’s status as a premier International Maritime Centre, aligns perfectly with my own passion for fostering growth and innovation in the sector.”

“Together with the dedicated team at the SSA Secretariat office, I look forward to driving initiatives that will not only support our members but also strengthen Singapore’s position on the global maritime stage.”

Photo credit: Singapore Shipping Association
Published: 22 October, 2024