Suncor Energy announces executive leadership changes with succession plan

Suncor Energy’s board of directors has announced a planned executive leadership succession that will see current president and chief executive officer Rich Kruger transition to executive vice chair in April 2027.

Peter Zebedee, currently executive vice-president upstream, will be named president and CEO concurrent with Kruger assuming his new role in April 2027. To support the transition, Zebedee will be appointed president and chief financial officer on Sept. 14, 2026, taking on oversight of all non-operating functions.

The company stated the leadership plan is the outcome of a succession process led by the board.

"Rich's exceptional leadership as president and chief executive officer has transformed the company," said board chair Russ Girling in a release. "During his tenure, Suncor has delivered record-breaking financial and operating results, including setting a new standard for safety."

Kruger expressed confidence in his successor, noting he has worked side by side with Zebedee for years and has complete confidence in his ability to lead the company and execute its strategy.

Peter Zebedee named incoming president and CEO

Zebedee brings more than 30 years of energy industry experience to the role. Since joining Suncor in 2022, he has overseen improvements in upstream personnel safety, operational integrity, asset utilization, and profitability.

Before joining Suncor, Zebedee served as chief executive officer of LNG Canada. His career also includes various roles with Shell, Petro-Canada, and Syncrude, covering both upstream and downstream operations.

"I am excited about my new role and the opportunity to lead this company in the future," Zebedee said. "I am committed to executing Suncor's current strategy and building on the company's successful transformation."

In the months ahead, Zebedee will work closely with Kruger prior to taking over as chief executive officer in 2027.