Continental Resources appoints new COO

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OKLAHOMA CITY – Continental Resources Inc.’s board of directors appointed Jack Stark as the company’s new president and chief operating officer Wednesday. Stark has served as Continental’s senior vice president of exploration since 1998.

“Jack is a great team leader whose geological contributions have been a key component of Continental’s success over the past 22 years,” Continental Chairman and CEO Harold Hamm said in a prepared statement. “He is highly regarded as a pioneer in unlocking unconventional resources in the Rockies, the Bakken, and most recently the SCOOP play in Oklahoma.”

Stark replaces W.F. “Rick” Bott, who resigned the position to pursue other opportunities.

Having joined the company in 1992, Stark brings more than 30 years of industry experience to his new position. He is a member of the American Association of Petroleum Geologists, Oklahoma Independent Petroleum Association, Rocky Mountain Association of Geologists, Houston Geological Society and Oklahoma Geological Society. He also holds a master’s degree in geology from Colorado State University.

“He has the respect and trust of the entire Continental team,” Hamm said. “This new role will expand his operational leadership, positioning him to continue playing a critical role in leading Continental as we execute ahead of schedule on our five-year plan and develop our deep inventory into the future.”

Stark told The Journal Record he was honored to receive the promotion, and the decision to accept the position was easy. He said he planned to continue to grow the company and didn’t foresee any big changes on the horizon.

“I’m pleased and excited for this new adventure,” he said. “Great people and great assets create exceptional results.”