Woodside Energy (ASX:WDS) announced that CEO and Managing Director Meg O’Neill will step down to take on the role of CEO at BP, effective Dec. 28.
Liz Westcott has been appointed Acting CEO. Westcott, a seasoned executive with extensive global operational experience, has served as Woodside's Executive Vice President and COO for Australia since joining the company in June 2023.
She previously held senior roles at Energy Australia and ExxonMobil across Australia, the UK, and Italy, with expertise spanning operations, project management, strategic planning, and technical leadership.
Woodside Chair Richard Goyder praised O’Neill for her leadership, citing her role in the company's transformational growth, including the merger with BHP Petroleum, major project developments, and $11 billion in dividends to shareholders since 2022.
Goyder emphasised that Westcott’s appointment ensures strong continuity as Woodside continues to focus on safe and efficient operations, major project execution, and the strategic priorities outlined at its November 2025 capital markets day.
The board plans to announce a permanent CEO appointment in the first quarter of 2026.