Tullow Oil founder to step down as CEO after 31 years

Aidan Heavey will become chairman of the exploration group for a period of up to two years

Tullow Oil founder Aidan Heavey Pic: RollingNews.ie

The founder of Tullow Oil, Aidan Heavey, is to step down from his position as chief executive of the exploration group after more than 30 years in the job, becoming chairman for a period of up to two years. He will be succeeded by the current chief operating officer, Paul McDade, the company said.

"Aidan Heavey’s appointment as non-executive chairman reflects the board’s belief that, owing to the unique nature of Tullow’s business andrelationships across Africa, a phased transition in the leadership of the group is appropriate," Tullow said as it released a trading update ahead of results on February 8.