GeoPark has announced the implementation of its long-planned succession process and that, after twenty years at the helm of GeoPark, James F. Park will be succeeded by Andres Ocampo as Chief Executive Officer, effective July 1, 2022, at which time Mr. Ocampo will also join the Company’s Board of Directors. Mr. Park will remain as CEO during this interim period and continue to work closely with Mr. Ocampo and the rest of the GeoPark Executive Team to ensure a seamless transition. Beyond this transition period, Mr. Park will continue to serve as Vice Chair of the Board and an adviser to the team, and he will remain one of the largest shareholders of the Company. As part of this transition, Veronica Davila, GeoPark’s Commercial Director, will take over as Chief Financial Officer.

Mr. Ocampo has been an integral member of GeoPark’s Executive Team for more than a decade and has played a crucial role in setting and executing GeoPark’s focused strategy. Under the leadership of Mr. Ocampo and the GeoPark Executive Team, the Company will maintain its founding principles and proven growth strategy, along with its focus as a best-in-class oil and gas finder and operator. The Company will continue to manage its assets in the most ethical, responsible and compatible way with the environment and its neighbors, while creating long-term value for GeoPark’s shareholders and other stakeholders.

Sylvia Escovar, Independent Chair of GeoPark’s Board of Directors, said: 
“Our announcement is the result of a deliberate and thoughtful succession planning process, and Andres was the clear and unanimous choice of the Board and Executive Team to serve as GeoPark’s next CEO. Andres has a proven ability to think strategically, communicate his vision and grow our business effectively. He is the right leader to help GeoPark execute today as well as capture the opportunities that lie ahead. GeoPark is stronger than ever — with our most impressive work program in our history underway and a strong wind at our back with high oil prices — and the timing is right to implement this succession plan. We look forward to working with Andres and the rest of the Executive Team, and we are confident they will capably guide GeoPark through our next chapter of growth and success.”

Ms. Escovar continued: 
“On behalf of the Board, I want to thank Jim for his incredible leadership over the past 20 years. Since co-founding the Company in 2002, Jim and the GeoPark Executive Team have built the Company into one of the largest, most respected and best-operated public independent E&P companies in Latin America. Jim’s commitment to creating value and giving back has driven GeoPark’s strategy, culture and success for nearly two decades and will continue to serve as the Company’s guiding principles. We look forward to continuing to benefit from his knowledge, experience and counsel.”

Mr. Ocampo, said: 
“I am honored by the opportunity to serve with the incredible team of people that are the heart of our Company, especially during this exciting and dynamic time for GeoPark. As CEO, I am committed to building on Jim’s legacy by continuing to focus on the fundamentals, principles, values, culture, know-how and work ethic that have made GeoPark such a successful company and special place to work. I look forward to collaborating with my colleagues on the Board and Executive Team, including Veronica in her new role as CFO, to enhance our proven track record of growth and value creation for all of our stakeholders, including our shareholders, employees, partners and communities.”

Mr. Park concluded: 
“Impossible to adequately express my immense gratitude to all the wonderful GeoPark people and for their extraordinary efforts — starting from zero — to build our Company and create our unique culture together. I want to thank our shareholders for your trust and for giving me the opportunity to work for you all these years. It has been an honor and a privilege to be part of this story. I learned a lot from everyone, made some of the best friends ever and had more fun than can be imagined. This transition is a great development — and Andres’ character, vision, knowledge of our Company, and proven ability to manage a successful business make him ideally suited to serve as our next CEO. The continuity of our experienced Executive Team — many of whom have been with the Company since its very early days — will ensure GeoPark continues to be the best in our business. As a shareholder, I believe GeoPark’s best days are ahead of us and look forward to contributing to and supporting the team wherever needed.”

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