Former Cairn Energy CEO appointed senior adviser at Alder

(WO) — Simon Thomson has joined advisory firm Alder as senior adviser, bringing more than two decades of leadership experience in the international oil and gas sector. 

Thomson joined Cairn Energy in 1995 and served as chief executive from 2011 through 2023, overseeing a series of international upstream transactions and managing complex legal and stakeholder issues during his tenure.

He currently serves as non-executive chair of Rockhopper Exploration and as a non-executive director of Big Technologies.

According to Alder, Thomson will support the company’s advisory work involving reputational risk, crisis management and strategic guidance for boards and senior leadership teams operating in high-scrutiny sectors, including energy and natural resources.

“Simon’s track record leading organizations through high-stakes situations will be a significant asset to Alder,” said Alder Managing Director Tim Toulmin.

Thomson said the role aligns with his experience navigating complex operational and reputational challenges throughout his career in the upstream sector.

Alder advises companies operating in industries facing heightened regulatory, geopolitical and stakeholder scrutiny, including oil and gas, energy and natural resources.