Papua New Guinea Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (PNGEITI) warmly congratulates Mr. Richard Kassman (OBE) on his appointment as the new Executive Director for PNG Chamber of Resource and Energy (PNGCORE).
PNGEITI Executive Director Mr. George Kauli, in his congratulatory message, said Mr. Kassman fits all credentials to lead PNGCORE’s strategic initiatives, shareholder engagement and policy advocacy.
Mr. Kassman has been a longstanding leader in advancing transparency in Papua New Guinea’s extractive sector, serving as an early advocate for EITI adoption, a central figure in shaping the initiative’s foundation, and a key industry representative on the PNGEITI Multi-Stakeholder Group (MSG). His continued leadership across industry has reinforced alignment between resource development and transparency standards.
Mr. Kauli further described Mr. Kassman as a “fine gentleman” who brings more than 40 years experience across petroleum, energy, tourism, insurance and civil society sectors to lead PNGCORE.
“Mr. Kassman is a respected leader with a proven track record, integrity and a wealth of experience to lead PNGCORE,” said Mr. Kauli.
Mr. Kassman succeeds Mr. Philip Samar who has served as interim Executive Director during the transition period. The PNGEITI also acknowledges Mr. Samar on his tenure as interim Executive Director of the PNGCORE and his steadfast support to the PNGEITI during the crucial 2026 PNGEITI Country Validation.
PNGEITI looks forward to continued collaboration with the PNGCORE and the industry under Mr. Kassman’s leadership to advance shared goals of responsible resource management, data transparency, governance and inclusive development.
