CALGARY, AB, Jan. 27, 2021 /CNW/ - The Board of Directors of
AKITA Drilling Ltd. announces that Linda
Southern-Heathcott will become Executive Chair and CEO of
AKITA Drilling Ltd. following the retirement of Karl A. Ruud as President and CEO on
May 15, 2021, after a 45-year career
with AKITA and predecessors.
Ms. Southern-Heathcott is a founding director of the
Company. She has been Chair of the Board since May 2006 and was Deputy Chair from 2004 to 2006.
"On behalf of the Board of Directors, I would like to express our
sincere appreciation for the tremendous service, commitment,
loyalty and leadership that Karl has provided to AKITA. He has
always strived for operational excellence and a commitment to AKITA
having one of the best safety records in the industry. His
contributions to AKITA have been significant and meaningful. During
his tenure, Karl nurtured strong relationships with our operators
and Indigenous partners. The Board thanks Karl for his 45 years of
dedicated service and we wish him well in his retirement," said Ms.
Southern-Heathcott.
"I am fortunate to have had a long and gratifying career with a
wonderful company and people that align with my values. I have
every confidence that AKITA is moving forward with a smooth
transition and excellent leadership, and is well positioned for the
future," said Mr. Ruud.
AKITA further announces that concurrent with Mr. Ruud's
retirement, Colin A. Dease will be
appointed President of the Canadian Division of the Company.
Ray T. Coleman will continue as
President, USA Division.
Mr. Dease was appointed Vice President, Canadian Operations in
November 2019, and was previously
Vice President, Corporate Secretary and Legal Counsel. Mr. Dease is
a director of the CAODC (Canadian Association of Oilwell Drilling
Contractors).
Mr. Coleman has served as President, USA Division since May
2020. Prior to that role, he served as Senior Vice
President/Managing Director US Operations and Senior Vice
President.
Ms. Southern-Heathcott and Mr. Dease will remain in their
current roles until the transition takes place on May 15, 2021.
AKITA is a premier oil and gas drilling contractor with a fleet
of 37 rigs. AKITA provides drilling services through two
geographical segments: Canada and
the United States.
SOURCE AKITA Drilling Ltd.
