WPX Energy (NYSE: WPX) has announced three personnel moves on its senior leadership team as the company executes on its long-term vision and business strategy.

“Focusing on operational performance, technical excellence and margin expansion is going to take WPX further,” said Rick Muncrief, WPX president and chief executive officer.

Joining WPX effective Oct. 27 is Clay M. Gaspar who will serve as senior vice president of operations and resource development. He has worked for Newfield Exploration, Anadarko Petroleum and Mewbourne Oil in a number of technical and leadership roles.

Bryan K. Guderian on WPX’s existing leadership team is taking on the newly created role of senior vice president of business development. His responsibilities include acquisitions and divestitures, land and land administration. He will also oversee WPX’s international operations until the company completes its announced exit from its Apco interests.

Steven G. Natali, senior vice president of exploration, has decided to leave the company effective Oct. 31. Bob Revella, vice president of geosciences, will oversee exploration on an interim basis until a successor is named.

The remainder of WPX’s senior leadership will continue in their current roles. In addition to Muncrief, Gaspar and Guderian, the team includes Dennis C. Cameron, Michael R. Fiser, Marcia M. MacLeod and J. Kevin Vann. Vann was named chief financial officer in July.