Talisman Energy declares changes to its senior leadership team. Nigel Hares, Executive Vice President, International Operations (West) and John 't Hart, Executive Vice President, Exploration are retiring. The Company has appointed Paul Smith and Richard Herbert, respectively, in these roles. Paul and Richard are expected to join Talisman towards the end of February and will report directly to John A. Manzoni, President and CEO.

"Nigel and John have been valued members of the leadership team at Talisman and we will be sad to see them go," said John A. Manzoni, President & CEO. "They have both contributed to the tremendous growth and success of the Company. I am grateful for their input into the Company's new strategic direction and plans for 2009. They are leaving their areas in excellent shape and well positioned to play a significant role in Talisman's future. Their experience and technical expertise will be missed and I would like to thank them for their advice and friendship.

"Joining us will be Paul Smith, as the new Executive Vice President, International Operations (West) and Richard Herbert, as Executive Vice President, Exploration. Paul and Richard bring world class expertise in the upstream business and will be valuable additions to the leadership team."

Paul Smith has an established track record in the upstream business with commercial, operational, project management and strategic experience. In his most recent role, he was Upstream Vice President at TNK-BP, responsible for operations in West Siberia, with 3,500 employees and production of 450,000 boe/d.

Richard Herbert brings global exploration experience in areas including Southeast Asia, South America and the North Sea. Recently, he was a member of the TNK-BP Management Board, holding the position of Executive Vice President Technology and prior to that Vice President, Exploration.

Tags: Talisman Energy