Mr Shawver joined Rex Energy following the acquisition of its Illinois Basin assets in 2005 and has managed its basin-wide operations since that time.

Mr Clayton joined Rex Energy in 2007 as the Illinois Basin regional reservoir engineering manager with the primary responsibility for managing the reservoir engineering aspects of the Rex Energy’s Alkali Surfactant Polymer (ASP) enhanced oil recovery project.

In his new position, Mr Clayton will manage all of Rex Energy’s Illinois Basin activities, including its ASP enhanced oil recovery project. Mr Clayton will report directly to executive vice president and COO William Ottaviani.

Benjamin Hulburt, president and CEO of Rex Energy, said: We wish Jack all the best in his retirement and would like to thank him for his exemplary service to Rex Energy during his time with the company.