Prominent player in the energy sector Empire Energy Group Ltd (ASX:EEG, OTC:EEGUF) today farewelled chairman and non-executive director Paul Espie AO. The change in leadership was confirmed at the conclusion of Empire's Annual General Meeting today.
Substantial contribution
Espie, who has been with the company since 2018, was highly regarded for his leadership and substantial contribution to the organisation.
He played an instrumental role in the acquisition of Pangaea Resources during 2021, the strategic repositioning of Empire towards its Beetaloo assets, and the building of the Empire team. All these efforts won him considerable acclaim.
Moreover, under Espie’s guidance, Empire achieved significant milestones such as the drilling and fracture stimulation of the longest horizontal section of any onshore well in Australia at Carpentaria-3H.
Stepping into Espie's shoes will be Peter Cleary, a seasoned veteran in the oil and gas sector. His appointment as chairman of the board takes effect today, immediately following the conclusion of the AGM.
Long career and connections
Cleary, whose 29-year career spans representing Santos, North West Shelf Venturers, and BP (LON:BP) in Asia, brings extensive knowledge and connections to the role.
He is currently a senior consultant with Diamond Gas International, a subsidiary of Mitsubishi Corporation, and Shinka Management, an advisory group for Japanese productivity practices.
Cleary also holds memberships in the Executive Committee of the Australia Japan Business Co-operation Committee and the Australia Korea Business Council.
Having first been elected to the board on July 14, 2020, Cleary's elevation to chairman underpins Empire's commitment to leveraging his considerable experience in LNG, pipeline gas, and chemical operations, as the company continues to grow in the energy sector.