Andy Samuel begins role as new Chief Executive of Oil & Gas Authority
Andy Samuel has officially begun his new role of Chief Executive of the Oil and Gas Authority (OGA).
The establishment of the OGA was an integral part of the recommendations made by Sir Ian Wood as part of the review into maximising the UK’s offshore oil and gas resources. The government fast tracked the recommendations of the Wood Review to maximise the potential of the North Sea and make sure the whole of the UK benefits.
Andy Samuel’s appointment as Chief Executive is a major milestone in establishing the OGA. He has already been fully involved in some of the decisions vital to the establishment of the OGA.
As Andy has said previously, his early priorities include: establishing the OGA and equipping it with the right people, skills and culture that it will require to perform its role effectively; identifying UK delivery priorities for the first year of activities and forming a strong partnership with Government and industry.
“I am excited to officially start this role and I remain confident that there is a strong future for the UK’s oil and gas industry recognising the current challenging times. From the outset, the OGA will need to work very closely with industry and Government as we work to make a rapid start on maximising economic recovery for the UK.”
Energy and Climate Change Secretary Ed Davey said:
“The Government continues to implement the Wood Review recommendations as quickly as possible, and Andy taking up this role is another important step forward in ensuring we make the most of our domestic oil and gas resources and bolster the UK’s energy security .”
The Wood Review stated that full and swift implementation of its recommendations could lead to an additional 3-4 billion barrels of oil equivalent being produced over the next 20 years.
Andy Samuel biography in brief
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Andy brings a wealth of relevant experience to the role having previously held senior positions within the oil and gas industry, most recently as Managing Director of BG Group PLC’s Exploration and Production in Europe.
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Andy has a strong technical understanding of the oil and gas industry, both nationally and internationally, and also, crucially holds significant credibility within the industry.
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Andy also has considerable experience with regard to rebuilding and reshaping companies, which will be a vital as he guides the initial stages of the OGA.