Shell has named Colette Hirstius as president of its U.S. business, Shell USA, effective Aug. 1, the oil giant announced on Monday.
Among Hirstius’s responsibilities will be spearheading Shell’s mobility network in the U.S., where the company serves more than 7 million customers every day, Shell CEO Wael Sawan said in the announcement. In the U.S., Shell is based in Houston, where it markets fuel at about 14,000 Shell-branded gas stations in 49 states and owned nearly 250 c-stores as of 2024.
“We see potential for further growth in the US, and under Colette's leadership, intend to build on Shell's competitive strengths as we deliver the secure energy our customers need to power their lives and businesses,” Sawan said.
Hirstius has been with Shell since 2003, when she joined the company as a production geologist and project manager, according to her LinkedIn bio. She’s since held numerous development and exploration positions, and took on her current role of EVP of Gulf of America earlier this year.
As president of Shell USA, Hirstius will succeed Gretchen Watkins, who will step down on July 31 after holding the position for the past seven years. A Shell spokesperson said in a statement to C-Store Dive that Watkins is leaving the company, but did not respond by press time when asked why.
"I would like to thank Gretchen for her service as President of Shell USA, where her leadership has been key to driving performance, discipline and simplification in our US-based businesses,” Sawan said.
