The former chief executive of the North Sea’s offshore energy regulator, Andy Samuel, was recognised in the 2023 New Year Honours list.
Mr Samuel stepped down as head of the North Sea Transition Authority (NSTA) at the end of 2022.
He was made a Commander of the British Empire (CBE) for services to the energy sector.
I am humbled and very grateful to have led such a brilliant team over the last eight years working across industry to accelerate the energy transition, whilst enhancing security of supply.”
Andy Samuel, former chief executive, North Sea Transition Authority.
Mr Samuel previously held a variety of international leadership roles at North Sea producer BG Group over 20 years, including a stint as managing director for European exploration and production.
He took on the role of chief executive at the then Oil and Gas Authority (OGA) in 2015, helping to establish and guide the organisation after the 2013 Wood Review recommended the creation of an independent economic regulator.
His retirement plans were announced last February, just weeks before the regulator unveiled its new strategy and moniker.
Regulator’s ‘driving force’
Passionate about nature and the environment, Mr Samuel was described by NSTA as the “driving force” behind its evolution into a regulator focused on energy transition and net-zero.
In his time at the helm he helped improve the North Sea oil and gas industry’s performance by working closely with the sector and government, the authority said.
Mr Samuel said it was a “great honour” to receive the award.
He added: “I am humbled and very grateful to have led such a brilliant team over the last eight years working across industry to accelerate the energy transition, whilst enhancing security of supply.”
Biodiversity and yoga retreat plans
Mr Samuel recently spoke about moving to a farm in North Devon, where he plans to pursue his passion for nature by driving a range of biodiversity projects – and building a yoga retreat.
NSTA’s new chief executive, Stuart Payne, a fellow CBE awardee, said: “I was delighted to see Andy recognised by his majesty in the New Year honours list, acknowledging the huge amount he has done to drive the energy transition and bring together industry and government throughout his eight years in charge.
“It was a fitting way to conclude his time with us, and I’ve spoken with him and said that on behalf of all of the team here at the NSTA we are proud of him.”
Other prominent energy industry figures receiving gongs this year include AFBE-UK founder Ollie Folayan and UK Atomic Energy Authority chief executive Ian Chapman.
Conversation