On Dec. 22, energy-focused private-equity and infrastructure investment firm First Reserve said it promoted Eduard Ruijs and Mark Saxe, who are on the Energy Infrastructure Funds team. The promotions become effective Jan. 1, 2015, the firm added.

Ruijs was promoted to managing director, and has been at First Reserve since 2011. He has worked in the contracted midstream, power and energy sectors, the firm said. Previously, he was an investment director and partner at NIBC Infrastructure Partners, the firm noted.

Mark Saxe was also promoted to managing director, and also joined the firm in 2011. He has worked in the midstream sector. Previously, he was a director in Loews Corp.’s corporate development department, the firm added.

"I am extremely proud of the team we have built at First Reserve, and these promotions reflect both our deep bench of talent and our commitment to excellence," said William Macaulay, CEO. "In my view, we have the strongest energy infrastructure investment team in the industry, and we continue to expect a robust set of investment opportunities over the coming years."

"These two individuals have played an important role in the success of First Reserve's energy infrastructure program to date, and we expect them to be key figures in the future of the firm. They exemplify the strong work ethic and dedication to delivering long-term, steady returns to our limited partners that is the hallmark of our energy infrastructure team," added Mark Florian, head of infrastructure funds.

First Reserve is based in Greenwich, Conn.