Williams Companies (NYSE: WMB) announced a significant executive leadership transition, effective July 1, 2025, marking a strategic milestone in the company’s long history and natural gas-focused energy leadership. Alan Armstrong, who has been President and CEO since January 2011, will transition to Executive Chairman of the Board. Concurrently, Chad Zamarin, Williams’ current Executive Vice President of Corporate Strategic Development, will assume the roles of President and CEO, joining the Board of Directors. Stephen Bergstrom, the existing chairman, will become lead independent director.
Armstrong has steered Williams for nearly 14 years as CEO and over 40 years at the company, driving remarkable business expansion in natural gas infrastructure—operating one-third of U.S. natural gas volumes via Williams’ extensive pipeline and storage network. As chair of the National Petroleum Council and a founding member of Natural Allies for a Clean Energy Future, Armstrong has been a leading advocate for the role of natural gas in the energy transition.
His successor, Chad Zamarin, brings extensive sector experience and has been instrumental in shaping Williams’ corporate strategy and executing strategic acquisitions since joining Williams in 2017. Zamarin’s leadership in New Energy Ventures and Power Innovation aligns with emerging demands, including data center energy solutions.
This leadership reshuffle comes as Williams continues to capitalize on accelerating natural gas demand and invest in critical infrastructure essential to a low-carbon economy. As Armstrong stated, “Williams is excelling on all fronts thanks to a strong and energized organization that is very passionate and dedicated to our strategy and to doing the right thing.”
As of Q3 2024 (fiscal period ending September 30, 2024), Williams reported an operating margin of 37.2%, a decrease from 44.7% in Q3 2023, reflecting ongoing industry challenges despite operational strength. This transition is expected to sustain Williams’ trajectory toward infrastructure expansion and clean energy integration.
Historical earnings call transcripts complement these developments. Williams under Armstrong’s tenure prioritized natural gas strategic positioning, including expansion in transmission, gathering, processing, and storage facilities. Recent years have seen increased emphasis on sustainability and innovation in energy solutions consistent with Zamarin’s executive roles in New Energy Ventures.
Who: Alan Armstrong (outgoing CEO), Chad Zamarin (incoming CEO), Stephen Bergstrom (board chairman to lead independent director)
What: Leadership transition with strategic continuity in natural gas and energy innovation
When: Effective July 1, 2025
Where: Williams’ headquarters in Tulsa, Oklahoma
Williams’ leadership succession is the result of a deliberate multi-year process to ensure seamless strategic continuity amid evolving energy market dynamics. With Zamarin at the helm and Armstrong as Executive Chairman, Williams is poised to advance its mission of powering the economy with clean, reliable natural gas infrastructure.
Investors and industry stakeholders should watch for continued emphasis on infrastructure investments and innovation in clean energy technologies as Williams navigates the energy transition.
For the original 8-K filing and complete details, visit SEC Filing: Williams 8-K May 5, 2025.
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References: - Williams Companies 8-K (May 5, 2025) - Williams Q3 2024 Operating Margin Data - Williams Earnings Calls (2011-2024)