Woodside Energy Group appoints Liz Westcott as CEO

Woodside names Liz Westcott as CEO, bringing extensive industry experience and leadership to the company.

Laura Stewart

Author bio Laura Stewart is a Finance Editor at The Motley Fool, where she covers Australian and international equity markets. She joined the company in 2022, following a career transition from legal advisory work in Southeast Asia into the investment industry. Prior to her current editorial role, Laura spent three years as an Equity Analyst and Writer, producing investment research across the ASX, NYSE, and NASDAQ. Her coverage included small-cap growth companies, thematic investment ideas, and high-quality U.S.-listed businesses. Laura holds a Master of Applied Finance and brings additional expertise in accounting, taxation, and estate and wealth planning from her postgraduate studies. She also has a background in law and communications, which supports her analytical and reporting work in financial markets. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time in the Adelaide Hills with her flock of sheep. Education Laura holds a Bachelor of Laws, a Bachelor of Communication (Journalism), and a Bachelor of Commerce with majors in Accounting and Corporate Finance. In 2025, she completed a Master of Applied Finance at the University of Adelaide, receiving postgraduate awards in Accounting Concepts & Methods, Ethical Principles in Accounting & Finance, Real Estate Valuation & Investment, and Tax, Estate & Wealth Planning. Social media LinkedIn FYI – I am taking a break from social media at the moment, so this account isn’t active at the moment, but I will let you know when I rejoin. Favorite investment quote "Compound interest is the eighth wonder of the world. He who understands it, earns it... he who doesn't... pays it." — Albert Einstein

Published March 18, 9:33 am AEDT

The Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX: WDS) share price is in focus today after the company announced the appointment of Elizabeth (Liz) Westcott as Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director. Westcott brings more than 30 years' experience in the global energy sector, including recent leadership across major Australian projects.

Smiling female CEO with arms crossed stands in office with co-workers in background. — Image source: Getty Images

What did Woodside Energy Group report?

Appointment of Elizabeth (Liz) Westcott as CEO and Managing Director, effective immediately
Westcott has served as Acting CEO since December 2025, previously Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer Australia
Fixed Annual Reward for Westcott set at A$2.3 million, with potential bonuses and incentives
Material long- and short-term incentive plans established for new CEO
The Board conducted a comprehensive internal and external search process

What else do investors need to know?

Westcott's leadership background spans working at EnergyAustralia and a 25-year career at ExxonMobil, covering roles in operations, project execution, and strategic planning across Australia, the UK, and Italy. Since joining Woodside in 2023, she has overseen the company's Australian Operations, including the Scarborough Energy Project and Bass Strait operator transition.

The Board's decision highlights their focus on smooth succession and strategic stability. The remuneration structure for the new CEO combines fixed salary, short-term and long-term incentives, and aligns with shareholder interests.

What did Woodside Energy Group management say?

Woodside Chair Richard Goyder said:

Liz's proven track record of outstanding strategic leadership and disciplined delivery distinguished her as the Board's top candidate for this role. Liz's extensive industry experience and strategic vision will be invaluable in leading Woodside at this significant moment in its history, as we position the company to meet growing global energy demand and deliver long-term shareholder value.

What's next for Woodside Energy Group?

Liz Westcott will lead Woodside through a period of growth and transition, continuing the company's commitment to operational excellence and disciplined project delivery. Her focus will be on sustainable value creation, executing key growth projects, and maintaining Woodside's strategy of meeting rising global energy demand.

Investors can expect ongoing emphasis on sustainability, commercial performance, and disciplined execution, as Westcott builds on the foundation laid by her predecessor and works closely with Woodside's Board and leadership team.

Woodside Energy Group share price snapshot

Over the past year, the Woodside Energy Group shares have risen 37%, outperforming the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) which has risen 10% over the same period.

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