Harbour Energy has announced that Phil Kirk has notified the board of his intention to step down.
He will leave his positions as Executive Director, President and CEO Europe, with effect from 28 February 2022.
Kirk founded Chrysaor in 2007, which with the backing of private equity firm EIG Global Energy Partners acquired large North Sea-focused oil and gas portfolios from Shell in 2017 and ConocoPhillips in 2019.
He said: “It has been an honour to be part of the Harbour Energy story and, as I depart to consider other business opportunities, I am very proud of what we have achieved.
"Harbour has a clear strategy and focus and, as a shareholder, I look forward to supporting its continued evolution and growth.”
Linda Z. Cook, CEO of Harbour Energy, commented: “Phil has been instrumental in the building of Harbour Energy over the past years.
"I thank him for his dedication to the Company and the UK oil and gas sector and wish him well in his future endeavours.”
Blair Thomas, Chairman of Harbour Energy, commented: “I have worked with Phil for over 18 years in multiple successful ventures including Harbour Energy, and have admired his entrepreneurial spirit and leadership.
"On behalf of the Board, I thank him for his many contributions to the Company and wish him all the best for the future.”
In 2021, Chrysaor acquired Premier Oil in a reverse takeover which allowed it to list on the London Stock Exchange under the name Harbour Energy, in which Kirk became head of the European operations.
Harbour is now the largest North Sea producer with around 200,000 barrels of oil equivalent produced daily. The Premier Oil acquisition gave Harbour assets in other regions including Southeast Asia and Mexico.