Current Shell NZ EP commercial manager Ajit Bansal has been appointed interim country chairman and New Zealander Rob Jager will be returning from Asia to be the new STOS boss.

Shell’s executive vice president for production in New Zealand and Australia, Tim Warren, announced the moves today, saying Zealand had enjoyed significant success during his 24 years with Shell, including making a major contribution to the management of STOS since late 2003.

New Plymouth-based Zealand said he was leaving for family and personal reasons.

“Leaving Shell and New Zealand was a difficult decision to make, but as a family we have decided to pursue a new direction," he said.

“During my time in New Zealand, I have been lucky enough to be part of an amazing team, who are committed to constantly improving performance. In particular, we have made major progress in the area of safety, both for our staff and for our customers.

“In our exploration and production activities, we have successfully negotiated the best way forward to commercialise remaining gas from the depleting Maui field, and we have commenced development of the Pohokura gas field. Both activities will enhance the security of New Zealand gas supplies.”

Warren said a key role for Bansal – a 20-year Shell international veteran – would be to steer Shell to the successful conclusion of direct operatorship of its New Zealand oil and gas assets – Maui, Pohokura and Kapuni – currently the matter of a High Court dispute between it and Todd Energy.

Jager – a 28-year Shell veteran – is currently regional EP manager for maintenance engineering in Malaysia.

Zealand leaves at the end of September.