Canadian Natural Executive and Leadership Team

October, 2026

Leadership Overview

Canadian Natural has 6 executives leading key functions including financial oversight, exploration and production, oil sands operations, and corporate strategy.

Committed to sustainable energy development, Canadian Natural delivers reliable oil and gas production through advanced extraction technologies and efficient resource management across North American markets.

Leadership Roles at Canadian Natural

  • Chief Financial Officer - Victor Darel
  • Chief Financial Officer & Senior VP, Finance - Mark Stainthorpe
  • Senior VP, Finance & Chief Financial Officer - Douglas Proll
  • Chief Operating Officer, Exploration & Production - Robin Zabek
  • Chief Operating Officer, Oil Sands - Jay Froc
  • President - Scott Stauth
  • Victor Darel - Chief Financial Officer

    Victor Darel, the Chief Financial Officer at Canadian Natural, manages the capital structure and fiscal health of the organization. Darel directs the allocation of financial resources across diverse oil and gas assets, ensuring alignment with long-term production goals. By overseeing rigorous budgetary controls and risk management frameworks, the Chief Financial Officer maintains the stability required for large-scale energy development. Victor Darel also coordinates with external stakeholders to communicate the financial performance of the company. This leadership role involves optimizing cash flow from light and heavy oil operations to support ongoing capital projects. Through precise financial planning, the Chief Financial Officer secures the necessary liquidity for operational expansion. Darel drives the implementation of fiscal policies that enhance shareholder value while navigating the complexities of the global energy market. Ultimately, the Chief Financial Officer ensures the financial resilience of the entire enterprise.

    Mark Stainthorpe - Chief Financial Officer & Senior VP, Finance

    Mark Stainthorpe, the Chief Financial Officer & Senior VP, Finance at Canadian Natural, architects the corporate financial strategy and reporting infrastructure. Stainthorpe directs the treasury functions and tax planning initiatives that support the broader energy production business. By analyzing market trends and commodity price fluctuations, the Chief Financial Officer & Senior VP, Finance provides critical insights for strategic investment decisions. Mark Stainthorpe also manages investor relations and ensures transparency in all financial disclosures. This leadership role involves overseeing the internal audit processes to maintain rigorous governance standards. Through the development of robust financial models, the Chief Financial Officer & Senior VP, Finance supports the long-term sustainability of the company. Stainthorpe drives the integration of financial data into operational planning to improve overall efficiency. Ultimately, the Chief Financial Officer & Senior VP, Finance safeguards the fiscal integrity of the organization.
    Mark Stainthorpe

    Douglas Proll - Senior VP, Finance & Chief Financial Officer

    Douglas Proll, the Senior VP, Finance & Chief Financial Officer at Canadian Natural, directs the corporate accounting and financial planning departments. Proll oversees the preparation of financial statements and ensures compliance with international reporting standards. By managing the capital expenditure budget, the Senior VP, Finance & Chief Financial Officer supports the development of new energy projects. Douglas Proll also evaluates the financial impact of various operational strategies to ensure alignment with corporate objectives. This leadership role involves collaborating with other executives to assess the economic feasibility of new production opportunities. Through the implementation of advanced financial systems, the Senior VP, Finance & Chief Financial Officer improves the accuracy of forecasting and performance tracking. Proll drives the development of financial policies that mitigate risk and enhance operational efficiency. Ultimately, the Senior VP, Finance & Chief Financial Officer maintains the financial health of the company.

    Robin Zabek - Chief Operating Officer, Exploration & Production

    Robin Zabek, the Chief Operating Officer, Exploration & Production at Canadian Natural, directs all upstream activities related to light and heavy oil extraction. Zabek oversees the technical execution of drilling programs and reservoir management across diverse geographic regions. By coordinating with engineering teams, the Chief Operating Officer, Exploration & Production ensures the efficient recovery of natural gas and crude oil reserves. Robin Zabek also monitors operational safety standards and environmental compliance throughout the production lifecycle. This leadership role involves integrating advanced extraction technologies to maximize output while minimizing costs. Through the strategic management of field operations, the Chief Operating Officer, Exploration & Production drives consistent production growth. Zabek maintains a focus on operational excellence to sustain the competitive position of the company within the energy sector. Ultimately, the Chief Operating Officer, Exploration & Production optimizes the performance of all exploration assets.

    Jay Froc - Chief Operating Officer, Oil Sands

    Jay Froc, the Chief Operating Officer, Oil Sands at Canadian Natural, directs the complex operations of in situ oil sands production and upgrading facilities. Froc oversees the technical processes required for mining and refining bitumen into high-value products. By managing large-scale infrastructure projects, the Chief Operating Officer, Oil Sands ensures the reliability and efficiency of the upgrading facilities. Jay Froc also coordinates with environmental teams to implement sustainable practices within the oil sands operations. This leadership role involves optimizing production workflows to meet output targets while adhering to strict regulatory requirements. Through the application of innovative extraction methods, the Chief Operating Officer, Oil Sands drives significant improvements in operational productivity. Froc maintains a focus on asset integrity to ensure the long-term viability of the oil sands portfolio. Ultimately, the Chief Operating Officer, Oil Sands manages the critical production capacity of the company.

    Scott Stauth - President

    Scott Stauth, the President at Canadian Natural, directs the overall strategic vision and operational execution of the company. Stauth oversees the integration of all business units, including exploration, production, and oil sands operations. By aligning departmental goals with the corporate mission, the President ensures consistent growth and market competitiveness. Scott Stauth also manages the relationship with the Board of Directors to facilitate effective governance and long-term planning. This leadership role involves identifying new opportunities for resource development and technological innovation. Through the coordination of cross-functional teams, the President drives the implementation of large-scale energy projects. Stauth maintains a focus on operational safety and environmental responsibility across all business activities. By fostering a culture of excellence, the President ensures the company remains a leader in the energy sector. Ultimately, the President guides the strategic direction of the entire organization.

    Explore Leadership Teams in Energy, Utilities & Waste

    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Canadian Natural Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Canadian Natural?
    Canadian Natural is led by Victor Darel (Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Mark Stainthorpe (Chief Financial Officer & Senior VP, Finance) and Douglas Proll (Senior VP, Finance & Chief Financial Officer).
    Who is part of Canadian Natural’s executive team?
    The executive team of Canadian Natural includes leaders such as Victor Darel (Chief Financial Officer), Mark Stainthorpe (Chief Financial Officer & Senior VP, Finance), Douglas Proll (Senior VP, Finance & Chief Financial Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Canadian Natural have?
    Canadian Natural has 6 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Canadian Natural’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Canadian Natural includes roles such as Chief Financial Officer, Chief Financial Officer & Senior VP, Finance, Senior VP, Finance & Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer, Exploration & Production, Chief Operating Officer, Oil Sands.