QGC, a natural gas exploration and production company focused on establishing the world's first project to convert gas from coal seams into liquefied natural gas (LNG), announced that deputy managing director Mitch Ingram will succeed Derek Fisher as managing director April 2.

Ingram has been deputy managing director since last September and project director of the Queensland Curtis LNG (QCLNG) Project since May 2012.

Under his leadership of QCLNG the project has made significant advances, including first delivery of gas to Curtis Island as planned last December after completion of the 335-mile (540 kilometer) pipeline network. Ingram will continue to oversee the project, which is now in the final stages of construction ahead of commissioning. First LNG is expected in the fourth quarter this year.

Before joining QGC, Ingram was asset general manager of BG Group's Karachaganak interests in Kazakhstan. He joined BG Group in 2006 after 20 years with Occidental Oil & Gas where he held several UK and international leadership positions in project management, developments and operations. In his new role Ingram will continue to oversee QCLNG.

Commenting on the appointment, BG Group Chief Operating Officer Sami Iskander said: "Mitch is the natural successor to Derek. Through his roles as deputy managing director and QCLNG project director, he knows the business well. Now that the project is in its final stages it is the right time to hand over."

Fisher is retiring after 16 years with BG Group, which included numerous senior executive positions in the Group's international operating businesses. During the past six months Ingram has supported him in all aspects of the business and they will continue to work closely during the handover period. Fisher will remain with QGC to support the business in the lead-up to his retirement July 31.

Iskander said: "I would like to thank Derek for his strong and steady leadership of QGC over the past two years, in which he has redoubled efforts to ensure BG Group's business in Australia is focused on delivery, safety and working with the community."