Chris Newport Joins Jade Gas as MD with 60 Million Options Incentive
Jade Gas Holdings has appointed industry veteran Chris Newport as Managing Director to spearhead its transition from exploration to production in Mongolia’s coal bed methane sector. Newport’s extensive global experience is expected to accelerate the company’s commercialisation efforts ahead of first gas output.
- Chris Newport appointed Managing Director effective November 10, 2025
- Newport brings over 40 years of upstream and midstream energy experience
- Focus on advancing Jade’s Tavantolgoi Coal Bed Methane (TTCBM) project in Mongolia
- Appointment includes base salary, shares, and a substantial options package
- Leadership change signals shift from exploration to production phase
Leadership Change at a Pivotal Moment
Jade Gas Holdings Ltd (ASX – JGH) has announced the appointment of Chris Newport as Managing Director, effective November 10, 2025. This strategic move comes as Jade prepares to transition from a gas exploration company to a producer, focusing on its flagship Tavantolgoi Coal Bed Methane (TTCBM) project in Mongolia. Newport replaces interim CEO Chris Whiteman, with the board expressing confidence that Newport’s seasoned expertise will drive the company’s next growth phase.
A Veteran with Deep Regional and Sector Expertise
Newport’s career spans over four decades in the global oil and gas industry, including senior roles at BHP Petroleum, Santos, and Amerada Hess. His extensive background in coal bed methane (CBM) projects across Australia, Asia, and Africa positions him uniquely to lead Jade’s commercialisation efforts. Notably, he has been involved in transactions exceeding $40 billion, covering CBM, LNG, and gas infrastructure developments. His recent advisory role with a private CBM company in Mongolia further underscores his familiarity with the local market and regulatory environment.
Driving Commercialisation and Regional Energy Impact
The TTCBM project boasts a significant 2C gross unrisked contingent resource of 246 billion cubic feet, with continuous gas flow already established. Jade’s strategy aims to leverage this resource to supply Mongolia’s rapidly growing energy market, reducing reliance on imported fuels and supporting the country’s energy transition. Newport’s appointment is expected to accelerate the establishment of commercial pathways, including gas-to-power and transport fuel applications, which could have meaningful environmental and economic benefits for Mongolia.
Incentives Aligning Leadership with Growth Ambitions
Newport’s remuneration package includes a base salary of A$350,000, issuance of two million ordinary shares subject to a 12-month escrow, and a substantial options package totaling 60 million options with varying exercise prices and four-year expiry terms. These incentives are designed to align his interests with the company’s long-term value creation and operational milestones, particularly as Jade moves closer to first gas production.
Looking Ahead
With Newport at the helm, Jade Gas is poised to navigate the complex transition from exploration to production, leveraging his commercial acumen and regional experience. The company’s progress on the TTCBM project will be closely watched by investors eager to see tangible steps towards revenue generation and market entry in one of Asia’s emerging energy frontiers.
Bottom Line?
Chris Newport’s appointment marks a decisive step for Jade Gas as it aims to unlock Mongolia’s CBM potential and deliver on its energy transition promise.
Questions in the middle?
- When will Jade Gas announce its first commercial gas sales from the TTCBM project?
- How will Newport’s leadership influence the timing and scale of infrastructure investments?
- What are the key risks in transitioning from exploration to production in Mongolia’s regulatory environment?
