WILLEMSTAD - The workforce of Curaçao Refinery Utilities (CRU), a subsidiary of government-owned company 2Bays Curaçao (formerly RdK), is expected to transition to Oryx Midstream by July 1, 2027. At that time, Oryx will begin providing essential services to Global Oil. This update comes from Patrick Newton, interim director of 2Bays Curaçao.
Contrary to speculation, Newton clarified that CRU employees will not be directly employed by Global Oil Management Group, the company leasing part of the old refinery for asphalt production. “The recent meeting was between CRU staff and Oryx Group leadership, not Global Oil,” Newton stated.
Introducing Oryx Leadership
During the meeting, Ryan Breedijk, the new director of Oryx Midstream Curaçao, introduced himself to CRU employees. The event also featured remarks from Ghanim Al Saad, chairman of the Oryx Group, who joined via Zoom. According to a statement on the Oryx Group website, Al Saad reaffirmed the company’s commitment to operational excellence and investment in local talent.
“He emphasized the importance of teamwork in modernizing and optimizing operations while adhering to the highest environmental, social, and safety standards,” the statement reads.
Transition Timeline Unclear for Some Employees
Although Oryx officially assumed management and operations of the Bullenbaai terminal and Emmastad facilities on December 1, 2024, many CRU employees remain uncertain about their transition timeline. Newton noted that while the shift is expected to be completed within two and a half years, the exact timing remains to be determined.
Until the transition is finalized, CRU will continue providing services to Global Oil under existing service agreements. These include operations, laboratory support, shipping and movement coordination, fire fighting, and security services.
Growth and Training on the Horizon
Newton highlighted plans to expand the human resources (HR) functions of both CRU and Oryx, focusing on training, development, performance management, and career planning. “This collaboration with Oryx has already begun,” he said.
CRU currently employs 260 people, a number projected to exceed 300 by 2025 as operations at the refinery and Bullenbaai terminal ramp up. Additional growth is expected in the following years. The site will also see a surge in activity over the coming months as contractors undertake revisions and repairs. However, Newton acknowledged challenges in securing skilled and specialized contractors.
Key Players and Structure
David de Haseth, the refinery’s general manager, serves as CRU’s authorized representative, while Newton oversees 2Bays Curaçao. The parent company, 2Bays, employs about 15 people. Breedijk, as director of Oryx Midstream Curaçao, is responsible for managing the operations of both the refinery and the oil terminal.
As the transition progresses, CRU employees are being kept informed of developments, with Newton emphasizing the shared priority of ensuring a seamless and well-supported integration into Oryx Midstream.