Redefining the upstream industry: the new leadership agenda

The upstream industry has seen rapid transformation in recent years. Technology has been instrumental in this, as companies have focused on cost resilience by leveraging AI and digital technologies. Additionally, capital investment in the oil and gas sector will need to scale to meet rising demand – supporting long-term energy security while maximising shareholder value.

For upstream energy leaders, strategies can include both growth and consolidation in the form of portfolio diversification, strategic acquisitions and mergers, and scaling operations. In addition, with increased supply and lower oil price forecasts, cost reduction is imperative, and operators must champion integrated solutions across all operational aspects.

Additionally, investments can accelerate breakthroughs in scalable technologies such as renewable energy integration, carbon capture and storage (CCS), and Direct Air Capture (DAC), as well as advanced analytics to increase energy and production efficiency. Challenges remain in finding the right balance between decarbonisation and profitability priorities, which upstream leaders will have to navigate while simultaneously maintaining targets amidst shifting market dynamics.

Attendee insights:

Learn from energy companies about what their priorities are in upstream and how they are changing their business models to adapt to the current industry needs.

Executive Leadership: Shaping the Future of HSE in an Ever-Changing Energy Landscape

In today’s rapidly evolving energy landscape, fostering a robust Health, Safety and Environment (HSE) culture has shifted from a regulatory necessity to a strategic imperative. As operators, suppliers, regulators and investors navigate through the complexities of the energy transition, they face new exposures and operational challenges that demand an adaptative and forward-thinking approach to HSE management. This Strategic Executive panel will feature a broad range of leaders across the energy and technology sectors, as well as prominent industry regulators. The panel will explore the critical role of executive leadership and cross-sector collaboration in transforming organizational cultures, while ensuring that safety, environmental stewardship and sustainability are embedded at the heart of corporate strategies.

Attendees will gain insights into the evolving responsibilities of leadership in establishing proactive assurance mechanisms, embedding risk management into growth strategies, and developing advanced technologies and AI to promote workforce well-being and safeguard long-term value.

Attendees Insights:

• The role of leaders in influencing organizational HSE priorities and long-term resilience
• Practical strategies for integrating HSE culture within evolving energy systems and innovative AI technologies
• Ensuring robust governance frameworks to shape HSE policy and practice
• Balancing shareholder expectations with HSE imperatives, especially in a low-carbon future
• The symbiotic relationship between financial performance and a strong HSE culture