Shell plc (“Shell”) announced that Ben van Beurden (on the right) will step down as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) at the end of 2022, and that his successor will be Wael Sawan (on the left). Wael’s appointment is effective January 1, 2023, when he will also join Shell’s Board of Directors. Ben van Beurden will continue working as adviser to the Board until June 30, 2023, after which he will leave the group.
Shell Chairman Andrew Mackenzie described Ben van Beurden as an exceptional CEO, who has been in the vanguard for the transition of Shell to a net-zero emissions energy business by 2050 and has become a leading industry voice on some of the most important issues affecting society. “He leaves a financially strong and profitable company with a robust balance sheet, very strong cash generation capability and a compelling set of options for growth.”
Ben van Beurden commented that it has been a privilege and an honour for him to serve Shell for nearly four decades and to lead the company for the past nine years. Ben van Beurden underlined the confidence in Wael as his successor, knowing that he will continue to serve Shell with conviction and dedication.
Currently the Director Integrated Gas, Renewables and Energy Solutions Wael Sawan said: “It’s been a privilege to work alongside Ben and I’m honoured to take over the leadership of this great company from him. I’m looking forward to channelling the pioneering spirit and passion of our incredible people to rise to the immense challenges, and grasp the opportunities presented by the energy transition. We will be disciplined and value focused, as we work with our customers and partners to deliver the reliable, affordable and cleaner energy the world needs.”
Chair Andrew Mackenzie said that Sawan has all the qualities needed to drive Shell safely and profitably through its next phase of transition and growth and that he looks forward to working with Wael as they accelerate the delivery of their strategy. “His track record of commercial, operational and transformational success reflects not only his broad, deep experience and understanding of Shell and the energy sector, but also his strategic clarity. He combines these qualities with a passion for people, which enables him to get the best from those around him.”
