Australian Petroleum Production & Exploration Association (APPEA) chair Ian Davies has announced the appointment of Samantha McCulloch as APPEA chief executive.

McCulloch will join APPEA from the International Energy Agency, having led the IEA Carbon Capture, Utilisation and Storage (CCUS) Unit since 2018.

As an internationally recognised expert in CCUS, McCulloch brings more than twenty years’ experience in energy policy and advocacy within government, the private sector and industry associations in Australia and internationally.

Following the completion of a Bachelor of Laws (Hons) and Bachelor of Commerce (with Distinction) from the University of Wollongong, McCulloch received a Master of Public Policy (with Merit) from the Australian National University.

Davies said the Board was pleased to welcome McCulloch as APPEA Chief Executive.

He added: “For more than 60 years, APPEA has amplified the voice of our industry and collaborated with governments and communities to provide energy for a better Australia.

“We are very pleased to welcome McCulloch, as an experienced candidate with an informed view of the critical role our industry continues to play in meeting global energy and climate goals.

“Now more than ever, energy has a critical role to play.

“Reliable, cleaner and affordable energy supply is fundamental to all Australians.

“It is fundamental to keep businesses running. It is fundamental to the economy. It is fundamental to livelihoods and our way of life.

“And our industry is critical to energy supply both now and into the future.

“We look forward to the important work we will progress together, ensuring APPEA and our member companies are part of the conversation and the solution.”