Kristian Jebsen will step down as Chair and CEO of Gearbulk following the sale of his remaining shareholding to Marubeni. As of January 1, 2027, Arthur English will become CEO and Board Member of Gearbulk.
After many years of leadership, Kristian Jebsen will step down as Chair and CEO of Gearbulk. This follows a change in Gearbulk’s shareholding, with Kristian selling his remaining shareholding to Marubeni. Following the transaction, MOL will hold 72% ownership in Gearbulk and Marubeni Corporation 28%.
As of January 1, 2027, Arthur English will become CEO and Board Member of Gearbulk. Arthur is well known to Gearbulk, having worked in the company from 1994 to 2017, after which he joined G2 Ocean as CCO until he took on the role of CEO in January 2020. His appointment will support continuity, owner alignment and support Gearbulk’s continued development.
“The change in ownership and leadership is a natural step in Gearbulk’s development and provides a solid foundation for the company, and I am confident that this new set-up will be of great benefit for future success. I would like to thank the Gearbulk organisation for its commitment and contribution over many years,” says Kristian Jebsen.
Gearbulk’s key priorities remain unchanged, and the company will continue to focus on delivering on our strategy in close collaboration with suppliers, business partners and other stakeholders.
With Arthur’s long experience from Gearbulk and latter leadership of G2 Ocean, the company will retain important operational and commercial understanding while adapting to the opportunities and expectations that come with the new ownership structure.
“I am very grateful for the trust placed in me and look forward to working with the Gearbulk organisation in this new role. Gearbulk has an extremely strong heritage, highly experienced people and important relationships across the industry. My focus will be to provide continuity while supporting continuous improvement and long-term value creation,” says Arthur.
Arthur English will become CEO and Board Member of Gearbulk on January 1st, 2027.
Working closely with G2 Ocean
The changes also affect G2 Ocean. After serving as CEO for G2 Ocean since 2020, Arthur English will join the Board as Chair and SK Lim will be G2 Ocean’s new CEO. The changes take effect from January 1, 2027.
This combination of roles across both companies will support continuity, owner alignment and long-term strategic direction.