CNOOC Executive Changes: Huang Yongzhang Appointed President, Emphasizing Commitment to Sustainable Development

China National Offshore Oil Corporation (CNOOC) recently announced a significant personnel adjustment, officially appointing Huang Yongzhang as Vice Chairman, Executive Director, CEO, and President of the company. He also becomes a member of the Strategy and Sustainability Committee. This appointment marks a new infusion of leadership strength into CNOOC’s senior management team, further strengthening its strategic execution and sustainability initiatives.

Born in 1966, Huang Yongzhang’s career has been closely linked to China’s oil industry internationalization. He has held several key positions, including Deputy General Manager of China Oil Nile Company, Deputy General Manager and Safety Director of Exploration and Development Company, and Executive Vice President and General Manager of the Middle East Company, where he also served as head of the Middle East coordination team. With extensive international business experience, Huang’s addition is seen as an important step for CNOOC to deepen its global presence.

Meanwhile, CNOOC also disclosed other executive changes. Yan Hongtao resigned from his roles as Executive Director, President, member of the Strategy and Sustainability Committee, and Safety Director due to work adjustments; Mu Xiuping no longer serves as an Executive Director but continues as Chief Financial Officer. Huo Jian, Yu Jin, Yan Hongtao, and Mu Xiuping have been promoted to Senior Vice Presidents, with Yu Jin also taking on the role of Safety Director. These adjustments involve multiple core departments, highlighting the company’s focus on optimizing its management structure.

As one of China’s “Big Three” oil companies, CNOOC bears the strategic mission of ensuring national energy security and faces long-term challenges in coordinating traditional oil and gas operations with new energy industries. The changes in the Strategy and Sustainability Committee members further indicate that the company is integrating sustainable development concepts into its top-level planning, emphasizing decision-making in related fields.

The announcement details specific personnel appointments, including transition timelines and scope of responsibilities. The adjustments cover governance, safety production, financial management, and other areas, aiming to optimize management team structure, improve operational efficiency, and strengthen risk control capabilities. CNOOC stated that these changes have been reviewed and approved by the Board of Directors and are in compliance with company regulations and regulatory requirements.