The news source noted that Shell will also be considering external candidates for the job in the recruitment process, which is expected to commence in the fourth quarter of 2008.
Shell’s exploration and production (E&P) unit head, Malcolm Brinded, is reportedly the front-runner for the CEO position. The trend of E&P executives assuming charge of the chief executive position is evident at other oil majors such as BP and Total, according to Reuters.
Other industry voices have suggested the appointment of Linda Cook, head of Shell’s gas business, to the CEO position, given her more active stance at the company’s annual general meeting than in 2007, reported the news source.
