Pipeline company Williams Cos., which recently overhauled its corporate structure, has named energy industry veteran John Chandler as its new CFO, replacing Don Chappel.
Chandler previously served for 12 years as finance chief of Magellan Midstream Partners, which was spun off from Williams in 2003. Before joining Magellan, he was director of planning and strategic development for a Williams subsidiary.
“John is a deeply experienced chief financial officer who is well-known in the energy markets and within Williams,” Chief Executive Alan Armstrong said in a news release. “He brings a proven track record of financial leadership and delivering shareholder value, and I’m looking forward to his contributions to the Williams team.”
At Magellan, which he joined in 2002, Chandler oversaw the company’s finances as it grew from an enterprise value of approximately $1.5 billion to more than $18 billion. During his tenure, Magellan also improved from a non-investment grade master limited partnership to the highest investment-grade MLP in the midstream sector.
Williams, a major player in the U.S. midstream natural gas sector, recently boosted its ownership in the Williams Partners master limited partnership to 72%.
“As Williams focuses on delivering predictable, low-risk growth from its unique position between growing natural gas demand markets and the best supply areas in the U.S., I’m confident John will immediately contribute to the ongoing success of our natural gas-focused business strategy,” Armstrong added.
Chandler also served in various financial roles at MAPCO following Williams’ acquisition of the company in 1998. He will begin his new job on Sept. 5.
“I’m honored to be joining Williams at such an exciting time,” Chandler said. “The Williams board of directors, its leadership team and all of its employees are focused on delivering exceptional financial performance and shareholder value, and I look forward to sharing the Williams growth story with our investors and the financial community.”
Chappel announced his retirement from Williams earlier this year. “Don has played a critical role here at Williams and has earned the trust and confidence of our investors,” Armstrong said.