Escalera Resources Co. (Nasdaq: ESCR) appointed Neil Bush to its board of directors, the company said April 7, noting that the appointment became effective April 3.

Bush is the son of former President George H.W. Bush and his wife, the company added, noting that he has 30 years’ experience in the energy industry and in international business development.

Bush’s international development activities over the last 15 years have focused on China and the Middle East, Escalera Resources said. Some of his most recent business interests in China, Hong Kong and Singapore have had ties to oil and natural gas exploration, Escalera Resources added.

Bush began work in the oil and natural gas industry in the 1980s, the company said, noting that after working at Amoco Production Co., now BP Plc (NYSE: BP), he formed two exploration and production (E&P) companies that worked domestically and abroad.

Bush holds a bachelor’s degree in international economics from Tulane University, the company said, adding that he holds an MBA from Tulane’s Freeman School of Business.

Charles F. Chambers, chairman and CEO, said, "We are very fortunate to have Mr. Neil Bush join our board. He brings a fresh outlook along with a vast array of skills and contacts that we intend to put to good use as we grow Escalera both domestically and in the international arena."

Escalera Resources Co., formerly Double Eagle Petroleum, is based in Houston and explores, develops and produces domestic oil and natural gas.