HyTerra Taps Riley Kemp to Lead Global Push in Geologic Hydrogen

Leadership Change Signals Strategic Growth

HyTerra Limited (ASX, HYT) has announced the appointment of Riley Kemp as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately. Kemp’s arrival marks a significant step for the company as it seeks to capitalise on its recent momentum in the geologic hydrogen industry, a nascent but promising segment of the global energy transition.

With over 15 years of experience spanning legal, commercial, and corporate development roles across global energy and resources markets, Kemp brings a rare blend of transactional expertise and strategic growth acumen. His background includes pivotal roles in major transactions such as IPOs, capital raisings, and mergers and acquisitions, particularly within the oil, gas, and mining sectors.

From Fortescue to HyTerra, A Strategic Continuity

Most notably, Kemp recently served as Corporate Development Manager at Fortescue Metals Group, where he led commercial activities related to geologic hydrogen. His involvement was instrumental in Fortescue’s A$21.9 million strategic investment in HyTerra in late 2024 and the subsequent strategic alliance between the two companies. This close working relationship has now evolved into a direct leadership role within HyTerra, underscoring the company’s ambition to leverage Kemp’s expertise and industry connections.

HyTerra’s successful drilling campaign in Kansas, which established the company as an early leader in geologic hydrogen, has set the stage for Kemp’s mandate, to build global partnerships, enhance the company’s market profile, and accelerate commercialisation pathways. His appointment is a clear signal that HyTerra is moving beyond exploration towards scaling its operations and securing offtake agreements.

Incentives Aligned with Growth Ambitions

Kemp’s remuneration package includes a base salary of AU$330,000, rising to AU$400,000 in 2027, complemented by a series of incentive securities (ZEPOs) that vest based on continuous service and share price milestones. These incentives align his interests closely with shareholder value creation and the company’s share price performance, reflecting confidence in HyTerra’s growth trajectory.

Non-Executive Chairman Russell Brimage expressed optimism about Kemp’s appointment, highlighting his calibre and commitment to advancing HyTerra’s vision. Kemp himself acknowledged the company’s progress over the past eighteen months and expressed enthusiasm about leading the team through the next phase of development.

Positioning for a New Energy Frontier

As the global energy landscape increasingly embraces hydrogen as a clean energy vector, HyTerra’s focus on geologic hydrogen positions it at the forefront of an emerging sector. Kemp’s leadership will be critical in navigating the commercial and strategic challenges ahead, including securing partnerships, advancing project development, and driving market adoption.

Investors and industry observers will be watching closely to see how Kemp’s appointment translates into tangible progress on commercialisation and growth, particularly as HyTerra seeks to capitalise on its early mover advantage in geologic hydrogen.