After more than 14 years of guiding Senex Energy, CEO Ian Davies has announced his decision to step down from his role at the Queensland-based natural gas producer.
During his tenure, Davies oversaw the expansion of Senex’s operations, including the recent investment approval for a more than $1 billion natural gas expansion program in the Surat Basin.
Reflecting on his time with the company, Davies expressed his pride in Senex’s achievements and his role in its evolution.
“I am incredibly proud of Senex’s achievements and my role in those as CEO, from building the business as a small oil explorer in the Cooper Basin with one employee to a critical east coast natural gas producer with hundreds of employees, supporting some of Australia’s largest manufacturing customers,” said Davies.
He added, “Leading Senex for the past 14 years has been the greatest of honours, and it has been an enormous privilege to work alongside such a talented team of dedicated people. Senex is in the best position it has ever been with a clear runway and incredibly bright future.”
Davies will officially step down in late 2024, passing the leadership to Senex’s Chief Operating Officer, Darren Stevenson.
Stevenson has been with the company for 12 years, holding various senior roles in project development and operations, and is seen as the ideal candidate to lead Senex into its next phase of growth.
“I am especially pleased to be able to pass on the role of CEO to my long-time operations chief, Darren Stevenson,” Davies added.
He explained, “Darren has held a variety of senior project development and operations roles within Senex over the last 12 years and is the right leader for Senex’s next stage of growth. My focus now is on ensuring a seamless transition to Darren, who is expertly placed to drive Senex’s expansion projects forward, with new natural gas supply well on track for delivery to Australian manufacturers and households from late 2025.”
Senex Energy Chairman Professor Ian Plimer praised Davies for his exceptional leadership during his time with the company, noting his ability to navigate challenging market conditions and his advocacy for Australia’s natural gas industry.
“Ian has demonstrated outstanding leadership and vision through more than a decade of challenging market cycles and unprecedented gas market intervention, navigating Senex to grow and succeed,” Professor Plimer said.
“He has passionately advocated for Australia’s natural gas industry and its role in ensuring reliable energy and national security for Australia and its allies. I sincerely thank Ian for his dedication and leadership and wish him the very best for the future.”
Professor Plimer also emphasised the Board’s commitment to supporting Stevenson as he steps into the CEO role, expressing confidence in his ability to lead Senex through its next chapter.
He noted, “Senex’s shareholders continue to see immense growth potential in Senex and remain resolutely committed to investing in the Australian energy landscape. Further, the Board is committed to a smooth transition and supporting Darren in his new role as Senex CEO and congratulate Darren on his appointment.”
Stevenson is expected to officially take over as CEO by the end of 2024.
