According to Suncor, the departure was a mutual agreement between the company's Board of Directors and the chief executive officer
The chief executive officer (CEO) of Calgary-based Suncor Energy has stepped down following the death of an employee at its base plant mine. Mark Little, who had been Suncor's CEO since 2019, announced his departure last week, which was effective immediately. According to Suncor's statement, Little's departure was a mutual agreement between the company's Board of Directors and the chief executive officer.
"We commend Mark for his professionalism and the exceptional work he did to guide Suncor through the pandemic and lead our sector's progressive approach to the energy transition," said Board Chair Michael Wilson in a statement. "We thank him for his years of service with the company and wish him well."
Replacing him as interim chief executive officer is Kris Smith, who was the executive vice president of Suncor's Downstream division.
"Kris is an accomplished executive with 22 years of experience across our business," said Wilson. "He is a highly capable leader and has the Board's full confidence to serve as Suncor's Interim CEO."
Meanwhile, Suncor said it has formed a CEO search committee to select the company's next chief executive, with the assistance of a global executive recruiting firm.
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Little's departure from Suncor came after the death of another contractor worker, who passed away at the company's Base Plant site north of Fort McMurray, Alberta.
"Suncor is committed to achieving safety and operational excellence across our business, and we must acknowledge where we have fallen short and recognise the critical need for change," said Wilson.
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The worker's passing joined the string of workplace deaths and safety incidents reported at Suncor's sites, with Global News reporting that at least 12 fatalities have been recorded at the energy giant since 2014.
Elliot Investment Management in April penned a letter to Suncor's Board recommending board enhancements, an overhaul of the company's operation and safety culture, as well as an "objective review of Suncor's executive leadership" to ensure that the company is delivering excellence in operating and safety performance.
Suncor previously responded to the email saying: "Suncor appreciates the views of its shareholders and will take the time to carefully assess the recommendations and materials provided, with a view to enhancing shareholder and other stakeholder value."