Williams Cos. Inc. announced on Aug. 23 that John Chandler, senior vice president and CFO, has indicated his intent to retire.

Chandler had rejoined the Tulsa, Okla.-based midstream company in 2017 to serve in his current role following a brief stint of retirement.

John Chandler Williams CFO
John Chandler

“Four years ago, Williams was fortunate enough to coax John out of retirement to join our executive team,” commented said Alan Armstrong, Williams’ president and CEO, in the release.

“We’re happy for him as he chooses to enter this new chapter of his life,” Armstrong continued in his statement, “but we’re equally as sad to say goodbye to someone who’s been an integral part of our company’s growth and strong financial performance.”

Williams has yet to announce who will succeed Chandler following his retirement, effective March 31, 2022. However, a company release noted that efforts are underway to identify a suitable successor, and Chandler will be engaged in that process.

Chandler became senior vice president and CFO for Williams in September 2017.

Prior to rejoining Williams, he had served as CFO of Magellan Midstream Partners LP beginning that role in 2002 in advance of Magellan’s spinoff from Williams in 2003. He retired from Magellan in 2014.

“A little over seven years ago, I retired from Magellan to dedicate more time to my family and community,” Chandler added in the release. “And while the time away was incredibly rewarding, I came back to Williams to be part of exciting change and an incredible management team.”

During Chandler’s tenure, Williams strengthened its balance sheet, improved across many key credit rating metrics and achieved significant deleveraging, driving consistent value to Williams shareholders, according to the company release on Aug. 23.

“With its forward-looking strategy, strong balance sheet and ability to self-fund opportunities, there are many great things ahead for Williams, but I’m now ready to redirect more of my time back to my family and community,” he continued. “I will forever be grateful for the opportunity to serve in this role and am excited to see how the future unfolds for Williams as it continues to lead in an evolving energy environment.”

Chandler serves on the board of directors for Matrix Services Co. as well as the boards of several community organizations including the Wagoner Education Foundation, Wagoner Community Outreach and the Tulsa Area United Way.