Gretchen Watkins is a seasoned global energy executive and board director with more than 30 years of leadership experience across upstream, downstream, and energy transition portfolios. She currently serves as president of Shell USA Inc., where she oversees Shell’s integrated operations in the United States—the only country in Shell’s portfolio with a presence across the full energy value chain. Watkins is at the forefront of navigating the evolving energy landscape, helping lead Shell’s US energy transition strategy and fostering innovation across exploration, production, manufacturing, marketing, and power distribution.

Prior to joining Shell in 2018, Watkins was CEO of Maersk Oil Trading, where she managed global operations across eight countries and led a workforce of over 4,500 employees. Her career also includes executive roles at BP and Marathon Oil, where she drove production and operational excellence in diverse regions spanning North America, Europe, Asia, and Africa. She has consistently demonstrated strategic foresight, stakeholder engagement expertise, and a commitment to safety, sustainability, and value creation.

Watkins has served on multiple boards and joint ventures throughout her career and is known for her ability to align complex organizations with long-term strategic priorities. Her international perspective and cross-sector leadership make her a sought-after advisor on energy policy, corporate transformation, and environmental, social, and corporate governance.