CONSOL Energy Inc. (NYSE: CNX) appointed Timothy C. Dugan as its chief operating officer in the E&P division, the company said Jan. 21.

Dugan has worked in oil and natural gas for more than 30 years, the company said. Most recently, Dugan was vice president, Appalachia South business unit, for Chesapeake Energy Corp. (NYSE: CHK), the company said. In that role, he directed Chesapeake’s Marcellus and Utica operations, CONSOL said. He has also worked for Cabot Oil and Gas Corp. (NYSE: COG) and EQT Corp. (NYSE: EQT), the company added.

"Tim's intimate knowledge of all operational aspects, specifically in the Marcellus and Utica shales, his industry perspective, as well as his experience on the ground floor of a major airport drilling project, made him the logical choice to lead CONSOL Energy's E&P division, which is poised for dynamic growth in the coming years," said Nick DeIuliis, CONSOL’s president.

"This hire represents a critical step in implementing the growth strategy we have embarked upon. Tim brings outstanding credentials and experience to CONSOL Energy, and we are excited to have him join our team," he added.

Dugan has a BS degree in chemical engineering, with an emphasis in petroleum engineering, from the University of Pittsburgh. He is a member of the Society of Petroleum Engineers.

"This is a well-respected company with strong leadership and a storied history. I'm honored to be part of the team that will lead the new strategic direction and execute the growth plan in the coming months and years," said Dugan.

"It's great to be coming back to Pittsburgh. This is an exciting time for CONSOL Energy and for the entire region," he added.

Pittsburgh-based CONSOL Energy explores, develops and produces natural gas in the Appalachian Basin shales.