BluEnergies Ltd., a Canadian company focused on oil and gas exploration, announced on May 8 the appointment of Craig Steinke as its new Chief Executive Officer and Director. The decision takes effect immediately following the resignation of James Deckelman, whose departure was accepted on personal grounds.
A leadership change amid strategic consolidation
Mr Steinke’s arrival comes at a pivotal time for BluEnergies, which is currently completing its transition into a publicly listed entity after a recent public transaction with Canadian Global Energy Corp. According to the official statement, outgoing executive James Deckelman played an active role in the transaction, contributing to the company’s positioning for its next stages of development.
BluEnergies expressed its appreciation to Mr Deckelman for his service during this transformation period. No further details were provided about the specific circumstances of his departure.
An appointment grounded in oil sector expertise
Craig Steinke brings to BluEnergies decades of experience in the hydrocarbon industry. He has led or participated in the financing of oil and gas exploration and production projects across North America, Africa, Latin America, Europe and Asia. He has also held several executive roles within international energy companies.
Prior to BluEnergies’ public listing, the company had operated as a private entity since September 2021. Mr Steinke, alongside long-standing partners, led the early development stages of the firm, including the acquisition of reconnaissance licences covering approximately 2.2 million acres in the Harper Basin, offshore Liberia.
A strategic focus on offshore development
Mr Steinke’s background in managing offshore oil projects is considered an asset for BluEnergies, whose current focus lies in the development of its West African assets. The Harper Basin is seen as a strategic pillar of the company’s growth trajectory.
The company stated in its official communication that it has full confidence in its new CEO to lead future operations and deliver value to shareholders. No additional information was provided regarding short-term strategic plans.
