Drillsearch Appoints Simpson COO

Drillsearch Energy Limited today announced a further strengthening of its senior management team with the appointment of Mr Walter Simpson as Chief Operating Officer, reporting to Managing Director Brad Lingo.

The most recent role in Mr Simpson’s 30-year career in oil and gas was with BG Group subsidiary QGC as Technical & Commercial Director, based in Brisbane. He has worked in a number of roles in the oil and gas industry worldwide for BG and other companies including Baker Hughes and BP.

Drillsearch Chairman Mr Jim McKerlie said: “The Board commissioned a global search for an additional very senior executive and are completely supportive of Walter’s appointment. He brings additional depth and expertise to the executive team and increases the Company’s capability to continue on its growth strategy.”

Following Mr Simpson’s appointment, David Evans will revert from Acting Chief Operating Officer back to Chief Technical Officer, reporting to Mr Simpson. Duncan Lockhart, who had been acting in the Chief Technical Officer role, will take up a new position as General Manager – New Ventures, reporting to Chief Commercial Officer Peter Fox.

Managing Director Brad Lingo said: “Walter has a proven track record of project delivery in multiple jurisdictions and we believe his appointment is a significant step in strengthening our management team. As a company with a growing operating capability, we continue to seek high quality people to join Drillsearch, and this appointment is clear evidence of our ability to attract the top talent from an international pool.”

He added: “David and Duncan continue to be key members of the executive management team and I’d like to thank them for the hard work they have undertaken in their acting roles enabling the company to continue to meet its commitment to focus and execution.”