ConocoPhillips executive VP to retire after 35-year career

The executive vice president of production, drilling, and projects at oil and gas major ConocoPhillips has decided to retire after more than 35 years of industry service.

ConocoPhillips said on Wednesday that the executive vice president of production, drilling, and projects Al Hirshberg announced his retirement following 35 years of service, eight of which were at the company.

In conjunction with Hirshberg’s retirement, the company also announced the realignment of executive leadership responsibilities.

Namely, Matt Fox, currently the executive vice president of strategy, exploration, and technology, would be named as the executive vice president and COO.

Fox will have the responsibility for worldwide exploration and production operations, corporate planning, and technology. He has over 30 years of industry experience in a broad range of technical and leadership roles, including ConocoPhillips’ exploration and production operations from 2012-2016.

Also, Don Wallette Jr., currently the executive vice president of finance, commercial, and CFO, would be named as the executive vice president and CFO.

Wallette Jr. will have responsibility for the finance, commercial, acquisitions and divestitures, and information technology functions. He has over 30 years of experience and has served in several technical and leadership roles in ConocoPhillips, including leading the company’s business development function from 2012-2016.

The company added that the appointments would be effective on January 1, 2019. Hirshberg will remain in his current position until that date to provide support during the transition of his responsibilities. Fox and Wallette will continue to report to chairman and CEO Ryan Lance.

Lance said: “Al has been an impactful member of our leadership team and I want to thank him for his many contributions to ConocoPhillips. Al played a valuable role in our launch as an independent exploration and production company and in the successful execution of our business strategy. We wish him the best in retirement.

“By taking on expanded roles, Matt and Don will provide strong continuity within the executive leadership team for delivering our disciplined, returns-focused value proposition to all stakeholders.”