Minge to head BP Exploration (Alaska)

BP Exploration (Alaska) said Oct. 17 that John Minge has been named president effective Jan. 1, 2009.

Minge has held engineering and executive posts with BP around the globe and will continue BP’s commitment to a long-term future in Alaska, the company said. He is currently president of BP Indonesia and head of BP’s Asia Pacific unit.

He replaces Doug Suttles, who becomes chief operating officer for BP’s global exploration and production business. Suttles will report to E&P chief executive Andy Inglis; Suttles’ area of responsibility will include Alaska, the North Sea and other regions and functions, the company said. Suttles became president of BP Exploration (Alaska) Jan. 1, 2007.

“I’ve known John for many years,” Suttles said in a statement. “He is a skilled engineer, an experienced operator and a talented businessman. I know he will be very effective at continuing to drive efforts to unlock our next 50 years in Alaska.”

“I am glad to have the chance to lead one of the largest and most important businesses in BP’s global portfolio,” Minge said. “I am impressed at the quality of BP’s team in Alaska.”

BP said Minge began his 25 years with BP as a drilling engineer in the Gulf of Mexico. Prior to his position as BP Indonesia president, he was president of exploration and production for Vietnam and China. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in mechanical engineering from Washington State University. He will be joined in Alaska by his wife, Jackie, and their two children.

—Petroleum News