BHP Billiton Petroleum has appointed Mr. David D. Powell to the position of Chief Financial Officer. In his new position, Mr. Powell is responsible for all finance, accounting and commercial assurance activities for BHP Billiton's petroleum business.

Mr. Powell joins BHP Billiton from Occidental Petroleum where he most recently held the role of Vice President, Finance, responsible for Occidental's large domestic business as well as specific parts of its international operations. He has more than 25 years of oil and gas accounting, commercial and other finance experience.

Throughout his career he has held progressively more senior roles in the United States, Argentina, Russia, Malaysia and Qatar. Additionally, he has financial experience in exploration, major projects and investor relations.

Mr. Powell is a graduate of the William Jewell College, Missouri and has completed the Advanced Management Program at the Harvard Business School.

"I am very pleased that such a highly qualified professional as David Powell has joined us in the important role of CFO," said J. Michael Yeager, Chief Executive BHP Billiton Petroleum. "His broad experience in all aspects of finance and accounting plays a valuable role in our petroleum business."

Tags: BHP Billiton