Thailand’s national oil and gas company, PTT Exploration and Production (PTTEP), is preparing for a historic leadership transition as Kanita Sartwattayu is set to become the company’s first female chief executive officer. The incoming CEO will take over from Montri Rawanchaikul, who has helmed the company through a period of significant portfolio restructuring and international expansion.
Kanita Sartwattayu, described by industry observers as the best person for the job, brings a steady pair of hands to fill large boots left by her predecessor. Her appointment marks a milestone for PTTEP and the broader Southeast Asian oil and gas sector, where female leadership at the helm of a national oil company remains rare. The move signals a commitment to diversity and continuity in corporate governance.
The leadership change comes at a critical time for PTTEP, which has been actively diversifying its asset base beyond its traditional stronghold in the Gulf of Thailand. The company has increased its presence in Myanmar, Malaysia, and other regional markets, while also investing in gas projects in the Middle East and Africa. Kanita’s experience within the company is expected to ensure a smooth transition and sustained strategic focus.
Under Montri Rawanchaikul, PTTEP strengthened its financial position and advanced key projects such as the Malaysia-Thailand Joint Development Area and the Bongkot field in the Gulf of Thailand. The company also made strides in decarbonisation, with commitments to reduce methane emissions and explore carbon capture technologies. Kanita is expected to build on this foundation while navigating an energy landscape that demands both profitability and environmental responsibility.
Industry analysts view the CEO succession as a vote of confidence in PTTEP’s internal talent pipeline. The appointment of a seasoned insider rather than an external hire reduces uncertainty and signals stability to investors and partners. In a region where national oil companies are balancing domestic energy security with international competitiveness, Kanita’s leadership will be closely watched.
As Thailand aims to maintain its role as a regional energy hub, PTTEP’s strategic choices under its new CEO will have implications beyond the company. The transition underscores the growing emphasis on leadership diversity in the traditionally male-dominated oil and gas industry, and sets a precedent for other national oil companies in Southeast Asia to follow.
Key entities: PTTEP, Kanita Sartwattayu, Montri Rawanchaikul, Thailand, Myanmar
Source: upstreamonline.com · 2026-09-25 · https://www.upstreamonline.com/opinion/pttep-s-first-lady-boss-the-best-person-for-the-job/2-1-2032029
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