Jean-Marie Dauger, chief operating officer of Gaz de France, has been appointed chair of the committee responsible for organising the ONS conference in Stavanger from 26-29 August 2008.

"I am both very honoured and pleased at this appointment," said Mr Dauger. "ONS and its conference have become a major event in the oil and gas industry.

"The fact that so many stakeholders – public authorities, ministers, suppliers, manufacturers, service providers and most of the international companies playing a role in the Norwegian, British or Dutch offshore industries – contribute to the success of the conference shows the importance of ONS as an arena for exchanging ideas, knowledge and expertise.

"It also demonstrates the major position which Norway has now gained for our industry. Last but not least, the success of ONS results from the active contribution of Stavanger, thanks to a long-lasting commitment from and effort by the local authorities. "

Mr Dauger has been with the Gaz de France group since 1978. His business relations with Norway date back to his time with the gas supplies section, in charge of negotiating long-term gas supply contracts with Norwegians and others.

He has been involved in nearly all the projects between French and Norwegian producers, including Troll and the pipeline to Dunkirk. Mr Dauger is also chair of Gaz de France Norge, the Norwegian E&P affiliate of Gaz de France, which was incorporated in Norway in 2001.

"We’re honoured and proud to have Mr Dauger on board for ONS 2008," says Kjell Ursin-Smith, managing director of the ONS Foundation. "This is the first time our conference committee has been chaired by a Frenchman.

"Given the energy challenges facing the world, and Europe in particular, it has seemed natural to invite a key figure in the European market to take on this post. Mr Dauger is such an individual."