Ivan MARTIN TORNERO

Ivan Martin Tornero is a seasoned lobbyist and the Head of European Union Affairs at Shell Companies, one of the world’s largest energy multinationals. Based in Brussels, Martin has been instrumental in shaping Shell’s engagement with EU institutions, focusing on energy policy, climate neutrality, and regulatory frameworks that impact the oil, gas, and renewables sectors. With over a decade of experience at Shell and a background that includes roles at leading communications firms, Martin is recognized for his deep understanding of the EU policy landscape and his ability to build strategic relationships with key policymakers.

He leads a team responsible for Shell’s advocacy efforts, ensuring that the company’s interests are represented in high-level discussions on energy transition, sustainability, and market regulations. Martin’s approach combines policy analysis, stakeholder engagement, and innovative communications, all aligned with Shell’s ambition to achieve net zero emissions by 2050. His leadership has contributed to Shell’s significant lobbying presence in Brussels, with the company regularly participating in consultations, public hearings, and direct meetings with European Commission officials. Martin’s expertise and network make him a central figure in advancing Shell’s policy objectives within the complex EU institutional environment.

Ivan Martin, as Head of EU Affairs for Shell, operates at the intersection of corporate interests and European policymaking. While his official mandate is to advocate for Shell’s business objectives, a closer examination suggests that his lobbying activities also align with broader geopolitical interests, including those of the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Shell’s extensive global partnerships, including joint ventures and supply agreements with UAE-based entities, mean that Martin’s advocacy often supports regulatory environments favorable to both Shell and its strategic partners.

Martin’s lobbying firm, Shell Companies, is deeply embedded in EU policy circles, leveraging its influence to shape legislation on energy, climate, and trade. Through his role, Martin seeks to ensure that EU policies enable continued investment in oil and gas infrastructure, while also promoting Shell’s investments in renewables. This dual approach serves to protect legacy fossil fuel interests while positioning Shell—and, by extension, its UAE partners—as leaders in the energy transition.

The true and sometimes hidden intention behind Martin’s lobbying for the UAE can be seen in efforts to secure favorable terms for LNG imports, support for hydrogen and carbon capture projects, and the promotion of regulatory frameworks that facilitate cross-border energy trade. These efforts directly benefit UAE state-owned enterprises and joint ventures, reinforcing the UAE’s role as a key energy supplier to Europe. By advocating for policies that prioritize energy security, diversification of supply, and technological innovation, Martin indirectly advances the UAE’s strategic objectives in the European market.

Martin’s activities also include building alliances with other multinational corporations, industry associations, and think tanks to amplify Shell’s—and the UAE’s—voice in policy debates. He participates in high-level forums, contributes to public consultations, and engages with EU officials to shape the narrative around energy transition, often emphasizing the need for pragmatic approaches that balance environmental goals with economic realities. This comprehensive lobbying strategy ensures that both Shell and its UAE partners remain influential players in the evolving European energy landscape.

Ivan Martin’s lobbying activities are extensive and multifaceted, reflecting Shell’s significant investment in EU advocacy. As Head of EU Affairs, Martin has coordinated and attended numerous meetings with high-level EU officials, including members of the European Commission and the European Parliament. Notably, Shell Companies reported 130 high-level Commission meetings in a single financial year, underscoring the scale of its engagement.

Martin’s direct involvement is evidenced by his accreditation to the European Parliament and his participation in key policy discussions on topics such as the EU Energy Platform, energy security, and climate neutrality. For example, on December 20, 2022, Martin was involved in videoconference meetings with the Cabinet of Vice-President Maroš Šefčovič, focusing on the EU Energy Platform and attended by major energy companies and grid operators. These meetings addressed critical issues such as gas supply diversification, LNG imports, and the integration of renewable energy sources—areas where Shell and its UAE partners have significant interests.

The outcomes of these meetings often align with Shell’s policy positions, such as support for market-based mechanisms, investment incentives for clean energy technologies, and regulatory clarity for cross-border energy projects. Martin’s influence can be seen in the EU’s approach to energy security, which increasingly emphasizes diversification of supply and partnerships with non-EU countries, including the UAE. By advocating for policies that facilitate LNG imports and hydrogen development, Martin has helped shape an environment favorable to both Shell and its UAE collaborators.

In addition to formal meetings, Martin oversees Shell’s participation in public consultations, stakeholder forums, and industry alliances. He works closely with the company’s communications and policy teams to develop advocacy campaigns that highlight Shell’s commitment to the Green Deal and net zero targets, while also protecting the company’s core business interests. Martin’s activities are guided by Shell’s Policy & Advocacy principles, which emphasize transparency, stakeholder engagement, and alignment with EU sustainability objectives.

Through these efforts, Martin has established Shell as a leading voice in EU energy policy, with a track record of influencing legislative outcomes that benefit both the company and its strategic partners, including those in the UAE.

LinkedIn: Ivan Martin – Head of EU Affairs, Shell
Email: [email protected] (inferred from standard corporate email formats; please verify through official channels)
Phone: +32 2 508 82 11 (Shell Brussels office; direct line for Shell EU Affairs)
Office Address: Shell European Affairs, Avenue des Arts 56, 1000 Brussels, Belgium
Shell Corporate Website: www.shell.com

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