Swiber names John Swinden as new CEO

SWIBER Holdings announced late on Friday night that it has appointed John Swinden as group president, chief executive officer, and an executive director with effect from Sept 2, 2016.

This is after its previous head, Yeo Chee Neng, resigned from all appointments in the group with effect from the same day.

"In the interests of continuity and to ensure a seamless transition, Mr Yeo will continue to work closely with the group and the interim judicial managers as an adviser to the group," said Swiber in a Singapore Exchange announcement.

Swiber also gave an update on claims received by the group; as at Sept 1, the total sum is approximately US$227 million. It said that it is seeking legal advice on the claims.

Said Swiber: "The company is confident in Mr Swinden's ability to lead the group through the present challenging landscape for the oil and gas sector. Mr Swinden has been serving the company in various senior capacities since 2011.

"As chairman to the advisory board of global business development, he spearheaded the group's expansion into Latin America and oversaw a US$273 million project for Pemex - the largest gas line installed offshore for this client. As president director for the group's Indonesia joint venture, he oversaw the successful completion of US$725 million worth of projects for an extensive book of clients including Total, ConocoPhillips, Pertamina, Pearl Energy, Santos, and Premier Oil.

"Mr Swinden has also been responsible for the group's expansion into Europe, Africa and the Mediterranean."

With the new change, Swiber's board of directors comprises:

Raymond Kim Goh - chairman

Mr Swinden - chief executive officer and group president

Jean Pers - director

Yeo Jeu Nam - lead independent non-executive director

Oon Thian Seng - independent non-executive director

Chia Fook Eng - independent non-executive director