Natural Gas names new chief

Natural Gas Holdings has appointed Phil James as chief executive from January.

He will replace John Barton, who has agreed to delay his return to Australia until then to ensure a smooth transition.

Chairman Greg Martin said Mr James was a very experienced manager with solid experience in the gas and electricity sectors.

"Except for his early days in the Australian Army, Phil has spent his whole career in the energy industry, initially in his own business, then for the past 20 years with the Australian Gas Light Company, which owns two-thirds of NGC.

"He is very much a hands-on manager with proven leadership skills as well as a strong technical background."

Mr James is general manager of AGL's energy sales and marketing strategic planning.

Mr Barton, who is stepping down for personal reasons, led the company during troubled times.

NGC was forced into a fire sale of On Energy, the country's largest power retailer, during the winter wholesale power crisis.

It reported a net loss of $302 million for the year to June 30.

NGC shares rose 1c to $1.31 yesterday.

- NZPA