Shell CEO: Who Is the Current CEO of Shell plc?

As one of the world’s largest energy companies, Shell plc plays a central role in the global transition toward sustainable energy. Known for its legacy in oil and gas and its expanding renewable energy portfolio, Shell is at the heart of climate and energy debates. But who is steering this transformation? If you're asking "Who is the current CEO of Shell?" – here’s everything you need to know.

The current CEO of Shell is Wael Sawan. He took over the role in January 2023, succeeding Ben van Beurden. Sawan brings deep experience in both upstream and integrated gas operations, with a strong focus on financial discipline and long-term energy strategy.

Wael Sawan is a dual Canadian-Lebanese national with a background in engineering and an MBA from Harvard. Having joined Shell in 1997, he has held key roles including Director of Integrated Gas, Renewables & Energy Solutions. His leadership aims to balance profitability with decarbonization.

"Our purpose is to power progress together by providing more and cleaner energy solutions," Sawan stated, reaffirming Shell’s commitment to the energy transition.

Sawan is known for:

Driving portfolio optimization and cost efficiency

Scaling Shell’s presence in liquefied natural gas (LNG)

Overseeing renewable energy investments and carbon capture projects

Prioritizing shareholder returns while planning long-term net-zero goals

It’s too early to speculate. However, Shell has a strong executive bench, and succession planning likely focuses on leaders with experience in renewables, trading, or upstream energy.

As Shell navigates one of the most challenging transitions in its history, the CEO’s role is pivotal. From fossil fuel divestments to investments in hydrogen, EV charging, and carbon solutions, the CEO influences energy markets, policy discussions, and environmental outcomes on a global scale.

Sawan’s roadmap for Shell includes:

Growing its low-carbon energy business

Continuing oil and gas operations responsibly

Boosting returns to shareholders

Investing in carbon capture, renewables, and hydrogen infrastructure

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Details

Wael Sawan became CEO of Shell in January 2023.

He was Shell’s Director of Integrated Gas, Renewables & Energy Solutions.

Shell is best known for oil, gas, LNG, and increasingly, renewable energy solutions.

Yes, Shell plc is listed on the London Stock Exchange under the ticker SHEL.

Strategic, performance-focused, and centered on the energy transition.

Yes, Shell is expanding into hydrogen, wind, solar, and EV infrastructure.

Visit their official website: shell.com

Wael Sawan’s leadership marks a new chapter for Shell – one focused on balancing traditional energy operations with low-carbon innovation. His decisions will shape not just the future of the company, but the future of energy itself.