By OGJ editors
HOUSTON, June 19 -- Unit Corp., Tulsa, named John G. Nikkel as chairman to succeed founder King Kirchner, who will remain on the board but is stepping down as chairman, effective Aug. 1.
Nikkel has served as the company's president for almost 20 years and as CEO since July of 1999.
Larry Pinkston, Unit's executive vice-president, will become president. He also will retain his duties as role as treasurer and chief financial officer. Pinkston has been with Unit for 22 years.
