John Wilson and his top team...a stroke of luck for AFC-Energy4 Feb 2026 00:08
Watching the latest investor video brought a lot of things to mind... I've come to understand why I consider John Wilson, as CEO of AFC Energy, with his superb support from an elite team, a stroke of luck. John Wilson isn't a mercenary; he's an exception. Instead of basking in the reflected glory of research, Wilson initiated a radical change of course immediately after taking office. He transformed the company from a "technology hub" into a "market player." For example, he closed unprofitable divisions (like the Stade site in Germany) and focused heavily on ammonia cracking (Hyamtec). You only do that if you want to ensure the long-term survival of your "baby," even if it requires tough decisions in the short term. It's not about the money for him! Look at the numbers: Investment: During the capital increase in July 2025, Wilson, along with other directors, invested a significant amount of his own money. He buys shares at prices he considers undervalued. He wants to profit not only from his salary but also from the increasing company value – just like us shareholders.
Rejection of exit scenarios: There were reports of informal inquiries from private equity firms to take the company private at a bargain price. Wilson clearly decided against this. He could have cashed in with a quick premium (sweet equity), but prefers to grow the company on the stock market. And he has introduced a new pricing strategy. AFC is already offering products at prices that will only become profitable through scaling in 2026/27 ("TCO equivalence"). This is a high-risk gamble. He's betting his reputation on the success of the scaling. A manager only concerned with a guaranteed bonus would plan more conservatively. Wilson wants to destroy the diesel generator market, not just dabble in it. And what I find particularly great... Wilson isn't a "boardroom CEO." You see him delving deep into the technical details at investor-meet-company presentations. He understands the chemistry behind hydrogen crackers and the physics of fuel cells. He's passionate about solving the decarbonization problem on construction sites and in data centers. For him, AFC Energy is the project with which he wants to actively shape the energy transition. Anyone who listens to him realizes: He doesn't want to go down in history as the CEO who managed a company, but as the one who brought hydrogen to the construction site. I wish we had more CEOs like him...as I said, this time we were lucky. He comes from Elektron Technology and Bulgin, where he proved he can transform companies. He left a top job at a crucial time and even managed to win over Bostock...and why? Because they are convinced of its success. I am too, and I'm hoping for the end of February; we can hold out for a few more days...best of luck to all investors!