Australia's Drillsearch Energy Names Walter Simpson as CEO

Australian oil and gas company Drillsearch Energy Limited announced Friday the appointment of Walter Simpson as CEO, effective immediately.

Drillsearch Chairman Jim McKerlie said: “The Board is delighted to appoint Walter to lead Drillsearch through its next phase of growth. Walter is a high calibre executive with a wealth of experience in Australia and overseas and a huge passion for the oil and gas industry.”

Simpson joined Drillsearch as chief operating officer in March 2015 from BG Group subsidiary QGC. He was appointed acting CEO July 3 and has led the company in that capacity while the Board continued a global search process for a permanent CEO.

McKerlie said: “The Board considered both internal and external candidates for the CEO position. During this process, we have been impressed by the leadership qualities that Walter has demonstrated as acting CEO. These qualities, combined with Walter’s extensive experience in the oil and gas industry, convinced the Board that he is undoubtedly the best choice to take Drillsearch forward.”

Simpson has more than 30 years’ experience in oil and gas, working in a number of roles in the industry worldwide for BG and other companies, including Baker Hughes and BP. Before joining Drillsearch, his most recent role was as Operations/Technical and Commercial Director for QGC, including the Queensland Curtis LNG Project.

Simpson said: “I am excited to be given the opportunity to lead Drillsearch. Drillsearch is an outstanding business, with an exceptional team, a robust financial position and a pipeline of organic growth opportunities across our core Cooper Basin operations, even during these challenging times.

“As CEO, my focus will be to ensure the successful execution of our long-term strategy, short-term plans, and the continuation of Drillsearch’s enviable track record of performance and growth.”