Expand Energy Corporation has named former Chord Energy Corporation CEO Daniel E. “Danny” Brown as its next leader, following an acquisition that expanded its gas marketing business.
Brown is expected to become president and CEO on Oct. 26, according to Expand’s Oct. 19 SEC filing. He will join the company’s board when his employment begins. Interim CEO Michael A. Wichterich will remain board chair in a nonexecutive role once Brown takes over.
Brown’s arrival follows Expand’s Sept. 16 purchase of Twin Eagle Holdings N.A., LLC, a natural gas marketer. Expand announced the deal in July at $1.25 billion, subject to purchase price adjustments.
The purchase expanded Expand’s existing gas marketing operations alongside its production business. Expand expects the combination to increase the value it captures from supplying and delivering gas to customers in the United States and Canada. Brown cited liquefied natural gas exports, power demand and industrial investment as factors driving demand for reliable energy.
Chord said Brown stepped down as its CEO and director on Oct. 19. It named Michael Lou president and CEO effective the same day.
Expand announced a search for a permanent CEO in February after replacing former CEO Domenic (Nick) J. Dell’Osso, Jr. The company also announced plans to move its headquarters from Oklahoma City to the Houston area.
Expand’s filing sets Brown’s annual base salary at $1 million and his target cash bonus at 125% of salary. His annual long-term equity award has a target value of $8.75 million, prorated for 2026.
Separate replacement equity awards have a combined target value of $15,652,246. Expand said they are intended to replace compensation Brown forfeited at Chord; the awards are subject to vesting and performance conditions.
Expand plans to release third-quarter results after market close Oct. 27 and hold an earnings call at 9 a.m. EDT Oct. 28.
