Southwestern Energy Co. announced that Julian Bott, executive vice president and CFO, died unexpectedly on Jan. 3 after experiencing a sudden non-COVID related medical condition.

Southwestern Energy CFO Julian Bott
Julian Bott

Bill Way, Southwestern Energy’s president and CEO, said in a statement on Jan. 4: “It is with profound sadness that I announce the passing of my dear friend and colleague Julian Bott. We have lost a well-respected business leader, adviser and mentor who will be remembered as a compelling and insightful thinker with a steady hand and warm demeanor that made him immensely successful. His presence will be deeply missed within the SWN family and across the broader industry.”

Prior to joining Southwestern in 2017, Bott had served as CFO at SandRidge Energy, Texas American Resources and 3DMD Technologies. He had also previously held executive positions at the Toronto Dominion Bank and Bankers Trust Co. 

“We extend our heartfelt thoughts and prayers to his wife, Cecile, their sons, Ian and James, his mother, Gillian Bott, sister Kate Bott Hawkins and her husband Jason Hawkins, as well as his entire family,” Way added.

Michael Hancock, vice president of finance and treasurer, who previously reported to Bott, will serve as the CFO on an interim basis. Hancock joined Southwestern in 2010 and has held numerous leadership roles of increasing responsibility in accounting, finance, investor relations and financial planning and analysis.

“We find comfort in knowing that Julian’s enduring influence on the company will live on through the next generation of leaders that he mentored and influenced,” Way continued. “The company’s vision remains unchanged, and I am confident in the experienced team that we have in place to continue delivering on our strategic objectives.”