Puma Energy names Mark Russell as new CEO in leadership shift
Puma Energy has announced the appointment of Mark Russell as its new chief executive officer (CEO). Russell, who has also joined the company’s Board of Directors, will work alongside outgoing CEO Hadi Hallouche as co-CEO until the end of June to ensure a seamless transition.
The leadership change follows Puma Energy’s successful financial and structural turnaround after Trafigura took a controlling stake in 2021. Under the company’s restructuring, the Executive Management team restored profitability, paving the way for sustainable growth.
A new era of leadership
Mark Russell brings extensive experience in leadership, commercial strategy, and risk management. Having spent two decades at Trafigura, he most recently served as head of Energy for the Middle East and North Africa. Earlier in his career, Russell played a key role in expanding Trafigura’s fuel trading operations in Africa and launching its bunkering business in West Africa.
René Médori, chairman of Puma Energy, expressed confidence in Russell’s ability to steer the company forward: “Mark’s focus on performance and delivery as well as his deep understanding of the downstream sector will be crucial as Puma Energy continues to actively manage market risks and capture new growth opportunities.
Recognising past leadership
“It’s been a privilege to have led Puma Energy during such a transformative period in the company’s journey. I would like to thank the board for their support over the last few years. I would also like to thank the entire Puma Energy team for their hard work and dedication. I look forward to working with Mark during this transition and wish him all the best as he takes on his new role,” said Hallouche.
“I am proud to have been appointed to lead Puma Energy and the talented teams across the world. It is a company with a diversified and important footprint across developing markets, where energy access remains a real and everyday challenge. I look forward to building on Puma Energy’s strong foundations and to deliver continued value for Puma Energy’s shareholders,” Russell said.
About Puma Energy
Puma Energy, based in Singapore, is a leading global downstream energy provider, operating in more than 35 countries, primarily in Central America and Sub-Saharan Africa. The company’s business segments include fuels, aviation, lubricants, LPG, and bitumen. Committed to driving growth and prosperity, Puma Energy focuses on meeting the energy needs of high-potential markets worldwide.
