Hirstius to succeed Watkins as president, Shell USA

Shell plc has named Colette Hirstius, currently executive vice-president, Gulf of America, to take on the additional role of president, Shell USA, effective Aug. 1, 2025.

Hirstius will take on the additional role following Gretchen Watkins’ plan to step down, effective July 31, 2025. Watkins has served as president, Shell USA, since July 1, 2018. 

"I would like to thank Gretchen for her service as President of Shell USA, where her leadership has been key to driving performance, discipline and simplification in our US-based business,” said Wael Sawan, chief executive officer, Shell. 

“The United States is an important market for Shell and where we lead the energy sector with our deep-water presence, are the largest off-taker of US LNG, and the nation's largest mobility network, serving more than 7-million customers each day. We see potential for further growth in the US, and under Colette's leadership, intend to build on Shell's competitive strengths as we deliver the secure energy our customers need to power their lives and businesses,” Wael continued.