Inpex to reorganize gas business in Japan, make executive changes

Inpex Corp. is reorganizing its second oil and gas business division and its gas supply and infrastructure division into a single domestic energy supply and marketing arm, effective Apr. 1.

The company says the reorganization reflects its response to changes in the natural gas business environment in Japan, including the full liberalization of the gas retail market coming into effect in April.

The domestic energy supply and marketing division is to consist of the following subdivisions: strategy planning and coordination; gas marketing; oil products marketing; Naoetsu administration; Naoetsu LNG terminal; gas supply; and health, safety, and environment. The reorganization is effective Apr. 1. The moves include three executive changes.

Masaharu Sano becomes director, senior executive vice-president; and chief technical executive in charge of HSE and compliance. He previously was director, senior executive vice-president; and senior vice-president, technical headquarters, also in charge of HSE and compliance.

Takahiko Ikeda becomes director, managing executive officer; senior vice-president, technical headquarters. He previously was director, managing executive officer; senior vice-president, gas supply and infrastructure.

Yoshinori Yamamoto becomes managing executive officer; senior vice-president, domestic energy supply and marketing; general manager, gas marketing unit, domestic energy supply and marketing division. He previously was managing executive officer; senior vice-president, domestic oil and gas business.