An impending market rebound has many feeling cautiously optimistic, but the extended cycle of the current downturn – now being characterized as “lower for longer” – has created a new reality that will change leadership imperatives for the foreseeable future. Energy leaders are realizing that lower prices, unpredictable market dynamics and hyper-competition for talent, resources and capital are driving a need to rebuild and adapt businesses or risk being left behind. In this new reality, it’s critical to strike a balance between disruption and discipline – understanding how to best lead innovation while still adhering to longstanding best practices that will ensure longevity regardless of future market fluctuations.

These were the leadership imperatives on the agenda at our sixth annual CEO Breakfast Panel at IHS CERAWeek 2017. Egon Zehnder’s Global Energy and U.S. Board Practice leader, Carol SingletonSlade, moderated candid discussions about leadership and talent in the energy sector alongside this year’s distinguished panelists:

• Jim Gallogly, Director, DuPont and former CEO of LyondellBasell

• Melody Meyer, Director, BP and former President, Chevron Asia Pacific Exploration & Production

• Dheeraj “D” Verma, President, Quantum Energy Partners

• Clay Williams, President and CEO, National Oilwell Varco