McDonald expected to succeed Vogel as SM Energy CEO

SM Energy has promoted Elizabeth (Beth) McDonald to president and intends to name her chief executive officer upon the retirement of Herbert Vogel on Mar. 1, 2026.

Sept. 8, 2025

2 min read

SM Energy Beth McDonald and Herbert Vogel — Beth McDonald, left, has been appointed president of SM Energy, and is expected to be named CEO upon the retirement of Herbert Vogel, right, in March 2026.

SM Energy, Denver, has promoted Elizabeth (Beth) McDonald to president and intends to name her chief executive officer of the company upon the retirement of Herbert Vogel on Mar. 1, 2026.

Vogel advised the board of directors of his plan to retire as chief executive next year, and that he has resigned as president of the company effective Sept. 4, 2025. Vogel intends to remain as a board member until the company's next annual meeting of stockholders, scheduled to be held in May 2026.

Until that time, McDonald has been named president, with her new title being president and chief operating officer. Last year, McDonald was as appointed executive vice-president and chief operating officer.

McDonald has 23 years of experience in the oil and gas industry. Prior to joining SM Energy, she served as executive vice-president – strategic planning, field development and marketing for Pioneer Natural Resources Co.

Vogel has served as president and chief executive of SM Energy since November 2020, having previously served as president and chief operating officer since July 2020, executive vice-president and chief operating officer since June 2019, and executive vice-president, operations, since August 2014. He joined SM Energy in March 2012.