Chord Energy Announces Leadership Transition
Key Highlights
- ➤Michael Lou appointed President and CEO, effective October 19, 2026
- ➤Danny Brown steps down immediately as President and CEO and director
- ➤Lou joins Chord Energy’s board after 17 years with Chord and predecessors
- ➤Chord says transition comes amid improving execution, lower costs, and resilient adjusted free cash flow
Expert Statements
Susan Cunningham, Chair of the Chord Energy Board of Directors
“Michael has been an instrumental member of the Chord leadership team and a key driver of our success”
Susan Cunningham, Chair of the Chord Energy Board of Directors
“He has helped profitably scale the business, and has led strategic and commercial initiatives while demonstrating strong business acumen and the ability to lead across the organization.”
Susan Cunningham, Chair of the Chord Energy Board of Directors
“His deep knowledge of Chord and his proven leadership make him well-suited to lead the Company. The Board has full confidence in Michael's ability to build upon Chord's momentum.”
Susan Cunningham, Chair of the Chord Energy Board of Directors
“On behalf of the entire Board, I thank Danny for his leadership and contributions to Chord Energy”
Susan Cunningham, Chair of the Chord Energy Board of Directors
“Chord Energy is implementing this leadership change from a position of strength, as the organization delivers continually improving execution, while lowering costs and driving resilient adjusted free cash flow generation.”
Susan Cunningham, Chair of the Chord Energy Board of Directors
“Our succession planning and the depth of our executive team position Chord well for continued success.”
Michael Lou, President and Chief Executive Officer of Chord Energy
“I am honored to be named Chord Energy's President & CEO”
Michael Lou, President and Chief Executive Officer of Chord Energy
“We have built a top-tier organization with talented leaders and employees who are passionate about executing on our strategy and driving long-term value for shareholders.”
Michael Lou, President and Chief Executive Officer of Chord Energy
“Chord has made tremendous progress and is well positioned as a stronger, more efficient, and more resilient company.”
Michael Lou, President and Chief Executive Officer of Chord Energy
“I look forward to working with the Chord team as well as our communities and other stakeholders to build upon our strong operational and financial performance, while safely producing the affordable and reliable energy the world needs.”
Danny Brown, Former President and Chief Executive Officer of Chord Energy
“It has been a privilege to serve as Chord's CEO.”
Danny Brown, Former President and Chief Executive Officer of Chord Energy
“It is difficult to leave such a great company and all of the talented people I've had the pleasure to work with, but I depart knowing the business is in great shape and the future holds continued success.”
Danny Brown, Former President and Chief Executive Officer of Chord Energy
“I am proud of what the team has accomplished, building a multi-year track record of disciplined capital allocation and portfolio optimization, advancing continuous improvement initiatives and delivering strong returns for shareholders, while building strong relationships in the communities we serve.”
Danny Brown, Former President and Chief Executive Officer of Chord Energy
“I am confident that Michael and the rest of the management team will build on this progress and lead Chord to continued success.”
HOUSTON, Oct. 19, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Chord Energy Corporation (NASDAQ: CHRD) ("Chord," "Chord Energy," or the "Company") today announced that Michael Lou has been appointed President & Chief Executive Officer, effective today. Additionally, Mr. Lou has been appointed and elected to the Chord Energy Board of Directors. Mr. Lou succeeds Danny Brown, who is stepping down immediately as President and Chief Executive Officer and from the Chord Energy Board of Directors to pursue another professional opportunity.
Mr. Lou has more than 25 years of experience in the oil and gas industry, including 17 years in various positions of leadership at Chord and its predecessor companies. In his roles as Chief Strategy Officer and Chief Commercial Officer as well as Chief Financial Officer, Mr. Lou has been instrumental in shaping and driving the Company's strategic and financial outcomes, including growing the organization to the largest operator in the Williston Basin while maintaining a pristine balance sheet.
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