Shell CEO: Who Is the Current CEO of Shell plc?
July 8, 2025
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.
Who is the CEO of Shell?
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: A New Era of Energy Leadership
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.
What Is Wael Sawan Known For?
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
Who Might Be the Next Shell CEO?
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.
Why Does the Shell CEO Matter?
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.
What Is the Future of Shell Under Sawan?
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
Company Snapshot
Feature | Details |
|---|---|
Company Name | |
CEO | Wael Sawan |
Headquarters | London, United Kingdom |
Founded | 1907 (as Royal Dutch Shell) |
Brands | Shell, Shell Recharge, Shell Energy, BG Group |
Industry | Energy & Petrochemicals |
Market Cap | ~$220 billion (as of 2025) |
Website |
FAQs
Who is the current CEO of Shell?
Wael Sawan became CEO of Shell in January 2023.
What did Wael Sawan do before becoming CEO?
He was Shell’s Director of Integrated Gas, Renewables & Energy Solutions.
What is Shell best known for?
Shell is best known for oil, gas, LNG, and increasingly, renewable energy solutions.
Is Shell publicly traded?
Yes, Shell plc is listed on the London Stock Exchange under the ticker SHEL.
What is Wael Sawan’s leadership style?
Strategic, performance-focused, and centered on the energy transition.
Is Shell investing in renewables?
Yes, Shell is expanding into hydrogen, wind, solar, and EV infrastructure.
Where can I learn more about Shell?
Visit their official website: shell.com
Final Thoughts
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.
