Vicki Hollub: A Trailblazer in American Energy

Vicki Hollub is a trailblazer in American energy, breaking barriers as the first female CEO of Occidental Petroleum, a position she has held since 2016. She has been instrumental in shaping the company's strategy and operations.

Hollub's leadership has been marked by a commitment to sustainability and responsible energy production. As a result, Occidental has made significant strides in reducing its environmental footprint.

With over 30 years of experience in the oil and gas industry, Hollub has a deep understanding of the sector's complexities and challenges. Her expertise has been invaluable in navigating the company through periods of change and uncertainty.

Under her guidance, Occidental has made strategic investments in new technologies and business models, positioning the company for long-term success in a rapidly evolving energy landscape.

Additional reading: Banco Occidental De Descuento

Vicki Hollub's early career began in the 1980s, working for Mobil Oil.

She held various roles, including positions in exploration and production.

Hollub's experience in the industry laid the groundwork for her future success.

Hollub started her career in 1981 working on oil rigs in Mississippi with Cities Service, a fully integrated oil and gas company.

Cities Service was acquired by Occidental Petroleum Corporation in 1982, marking the beginning of Hollub's association with Occidental.

She held technical and management positions for Occidental in the United States, Russia, Venezuela, and Ecuador.

Hollub became involved in leading Occidental's expansion in the Permian Basin in West Texas and southeastern New Mexico in 2005.

She was manager of operations for Occidental's Permian business from 2009 until 2011, before being promoted to president and general manager from 2011 until 2012.

Broaden your view: 2011 Bangladesh Share Market Scam

Vicki Hollub's early career is a testament to her grit and determination. She graduated from The University of Alabama in 1981 with a bachelor’s degree in mineral engineering, petroleum option.

After graduating, Hollub joined Cities Services, which was acquired by Occidental in 1982. She held various management and technical positions on three continents, including roles in the United States, Russia, Venezuela, and Ecuador.

Hollub's career advancement was marked by her ability to adapt and take on new challenges. She was a senior executive vice president at Occidental Petroleum Corporation, overseeing the company's oil and gas, chemical, and midstream operations.

As a leader, Hollub has been recognized for her achievements. She was selected by the National Diversity Council as one of the "Top 50 Most Powerful Women in Oil and Gas" in 2015.

Her experience and expertise have earned her a seat on the boards of the American Petroleum Institute and Khalifa University for Science and Technology in Abu Dhabi.

Vicki Hollub has held several leadership positions throughout her career. She was executive vice president of Occidental's operations in California from 2012 until 2013. In October 2013, she was named vice president and executive vice president of U.S. Operations, Oxy Oil and Gas.

As her career progressed, Hollub took on even more responsibilities. She was executive vice president of Occidental Petroleum and president of Occidental Oil & Gas Corp in the Americas from 2014 until May 2015. Later, she was named senior executive vice president of Occidental and president of Oxy Oil and Gas in May 2015.

Hollub's leadership roles continued to expand, and in December 2015, she was elected to the board of directors at Occidental Petroleum. She has also held positions on the boards of Khalifa University for Science and Technology in Abu Dhabi and the American Petroleum Institute.

For your interest: Bill Ackman Positions

Hollub's rise to executive management roles was a gradual one, starting with her appointment as executive vice president of Occidental's operations in California from 2012 to 2013.

She then took on a broader role as vice president and executive vice president of U.S. Operations, Oxy Oil and Gas, from October 2013 to July 2014.

As executive vice president of Occidental Petroleum, Hollub oversaw operations in the Americas from July 2014 to May 2015, giving her a global perspective on the company's operations.

In May 2015, Hollub was selected by Occidental's board of directors to succeed retiring CEO Stephen Chazen, citing her strong track record of growing the company's domestic oil and gas business profitably and efficiently.

During the transition period, Hollub was responsible for operations in the Middle East, Latin America, and the United States, demonstrating her ability to handle complex global operations.

She was later appointed senior executive vice president of Occidental and president of Oxy Oil and Gas in May 2015, further solidifying her position as a key leader within the company.

As global president and chief operating officer (COO) of Occidental, Hollub oversaw the company's midstream, chemical, and oil and gas operations from December 2015 onwards.

In April 2016, Hollub officially became president and CEO of Occidental Petroleum, making her the first woman to head a major American oil company.

Suggestion: July Jobs Stimulus

She was elected to the board of directors at Occidental Petroleum in December 2015. Her experience on this board demonstrates her leadership skills and ability to make strategic decisions.

She is the U.S. chair for the U.S.-Colombia Business Council, a position that requires her to navigate complex international business relationships.

She also serves on the boards of Khalifa University for Science and Technology in Abu Dhabi and the American Petroleum Institute. These high-profile positions showcase her expertise in the energy industry.

Hollub is a member of the Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE), a professional organization that brings together experts in the field of petroleum engineering.

Related reading: U. S. Steel Košice, S.r.o.

Vicki Hollub has received numerous awards and recognitions for her outstanding contributions to the energy industry. She was ranked 50th in Forbes' list of "World's 100 most powerful women" in 2023.

Hollub's leadership and expertise have earned her a spot on Fortune's list of Most Powerful Women, where she ranked 38th in 2023. She's a true trailblazer in the industry.

In 2024, Hollub was elected to the National Academy of Engineering for her leadership in energy company management and advocating for carbon management solutions. This is a testament to her dedication to sustainability.

Vicki Hollub received the prestigious Dewhurst Award in 2025 from WPC Energy, recognizing her leadership and contributions to the energy industry. This award is a significant honor in the industry.

Here are some notable awards and recognitions Vicki Hollub has received:

Vicki Hollub is the first woman to serve as CEO of Occidental Petroleum, a position she took in 2016. She has been with the company since 1988.

Vicki Hollub has a long history with Occidental Petroleum, having joined the company as a geologist in 1988.

Hollub's leadership has been marked by a focus on exploration and production, as seen in the company's efforts to expand its global presence.

For another approach, see: Income and Corporation Taxes Act 1988