SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA: The Board of Horizon Oil Limited (Horizon) announced the appointment of Richard Beament as Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, effective 1 July 2022.
Christopher Hodge, the current Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, will step down from the role on 1 July 2022 and has agreed to assist in an orderly transition of his executive responsibilities to Richard until 31 October 2022.
Horizon’s Chairman, Mike Harding, paid tribute to Chris, thanking him for his contribution to Horizon and for his stewardship during a challenging period which included historically low oil prices and the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Board believes that Richard is the right person to lead Horizon through the next phase of its development and growth, having developed a deep understanding of the oil and gas industry during his tenure with the company – including most recently as Chief Financial Officer since July 2018.
Commenting on the appointment, Mr Harding said: “We are very pleased that Richard has accepted the role of Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer. Richard is highly qualified for the role and has clearly demonstrated his leadership abilities over the years at Horizon. He is intimately familiar with all aspects of Horizon’s business. Whilst his background is in finance, he has a deep understanding of the technical side of the business and is the ideal person to drive the company’s strategy.”
In other changes to the leadership team, and with effect from 1 July 2022:
Gavin Douglas will assume the role of Chief Operating Officer, having previously held the position of Group General Manager – Production & Exploration. Gavin is a geologist with over 25 years of oil and gas experience, having joined Horizon in 2014.
Kyle Keen will assume the role of Chief Financial Officer, having previously held the positions of Group Financial Controller and Assistant Company Secretary. Kyle joined Horizon in 2018.
Vasilios (Vas) Margiankakos will assume the role of Company Secretary, as well as continuing his role as Horizon’s Group Tax Manager. Vas joined Horizon in 2017.