Lazard says that Jack Lentz, a leading oil and gas dealmaker, will join the firm as Chairman, International Oil & Gas, effective June 10. Mr. Lentz had previously served as the head of Lehman Brothers' worldwide energy practice.

"We are delighted to have attracted Jack, an outstanding professional. His exceptional reputation and deep oil and gas industry experience will reinforce our already strong energy business," said Kenneth M. Jacobs, CEO of Lazard North America.

"This is an historic inflection point in the energy market and I am looking forward to joining Lazard," said Mr. Lentz. "Lazard is well placed to take a leading role in helping the industry to meet today's challenges. I believe that the rapid changes in the economy, pricing, demand and the long-term environment will all accelerate the pace of strategic reassessments, reorganizations and consolidation in the industry."

Mr. Lentz has served as a director of Peabody Energy Corporation for 11 years, is the non-executive Chairman of Rowan Companies and is a director of CARBO Ceramics.

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