Who is succeeding David Wells as Shell's energy trading boss, and what is his current role?

Bob Kijkuit, Shell’s energy trading vice president of Europe and Africa, is succeeding David Wells as Executive Vice President of energy trading. Wells is retiring after leading the unit since March 2022, and Kijkuit’s appointment was communicated internally in a memo to employees on Wednesday, though it has not yet been publicly announced.

Why is Shell’s energy trading business considered critical to the company’s financial performance?

Shell’s trading business—dealing in oil, gas, fuels, chemicals, and renewable power, both for Shell’s own production and third-party supply—is a key driver of the company’s earnings; although Shell does not disclose the division’s standalone profits, its performance is closely watched because it can significantly influence or even determine the company’s quarterly results.

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Shell Shuffles Energy Trading Bosses as David Wells Retires

Jul 1, 2026

Shell Plc confirmed Executive Vice President David Wells will retire from its energy trading division, succeeded by Bob Kijkuit. The unit trades oil, gas, and chemicals, playing a critical role in the company's quarterly earnings amid market volatility.

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