Shelf Drilling Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

Shelf Drilling has 4 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, finance, and global execution.

Driven by specialized expertise, Shelf Drilling focuses exclusively on shallow water jack-up drilling rig operations, optimizing cost efficiency and technical capabilities within a distinct segment of the upstream oilfield services sector.

Leadership Roles at Shelf Drilling

  • Chief Executive Officer - Greg O'Brien
  • Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer - Douglas Stewart
  • Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer - Aaftaab Kharbanda
  • Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer - Kurt Hoffman
  • Greg O'Brien - Chief Executive Officer

    Greg O'Brien, the Chief Executive Officer at Shelf Drilling, directs the company's overall strategic vision and operational framework. O'Brien guides the organization's expansion and market positioning within the specialized shallow water jack-up drilling sector. This leadership role involves aligning corporate objectives with the unique demands of providing drilling services to major energy companies across the Middle East, Southeast Asia, India, West Africa, the Mediterranean, and the North Sea. By focusing on optimizing cost efficiency and technical expertise, O'Brien ensures Shelf Drilling maintains its competitive edge. The Chief Executive Officer's purview encompasses fostering innovation in rig technology and operational methodologies, directly impacting the company's ability to secure and execute contracts. Greg O'Brien's executive decisions shape the company's trajectory in the upstream oilfield services market, emphasizing sustainable growth and operational excellence in shallow water environments.
    Greg O'Brien

    Douglas Stewart - Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer

    Douglas Stewart, the Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer at Shelf Drilling, directs the company's financial strategy, fiscal management, and capital allocation. Stewart is responsible for overseeing all financial operations, including accounting, treasury, financial planning, and investor relations, ensuring robust fiscal health for the organization. This critical role involves managing the financial implications of Shelf Drilling's specialized shallow water drilling operations across its global footprint, encompassing the Middle East, Southeast Asia, India, West Africa, the Mediterranean, and the North Sea. The Chief Financial Officer's leadership ensures that financial resources are effectively deployed to support operational excellence and strategic expansion. By maintaining strong financial controls and reporting, Douglas Stewart provides essential oversight that underpins the company's stability and growth. Stewart's expertise is vital for navigating the financial complexities of the upstream oilfield services sector and maximizing shareholder value.

    Aaftaab Kharbanda - Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer

    Aaftaab Kharbanda, the Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer at Shelf Drilling, oversees the day-to-day operational execution and performance of the company's fleet of jack-up rigs. Kharbanda manages the complex logistics and technical deployment of drilling services across diverse global regions, including the Middle East, Southeast Asia, India, West Africa, the Mediterranean, and the North Sea. This executive function is critical for ensuring the efficient and safe operation of mobile offshore units in shallow water environments. The Chief Operating Officer's responsibilities include optimizing rig utilization, maintaining stringent safety standards, and driving operational efficiencies to enhance cost-effectiveness for clients. By coordinating fleet management and technical support, Aaftaab Kharbanda directly contributes to Shelf Drilling's reputation for specialized expertise. This leadership position involves close collaboration with other executive functions to align operational capabilities with market demands and strategic growth initiatives.
    Aaftaab Kharbanda

    Kurt Hoffman - Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer

    Kurt Hoffman, the Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer at Shelf Drilling, drives operational excellence and strategic execution across the company's global drilling activities. Hoffman focuses on enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of shallow water jack-up rig operations, ensuring seamless service delivery to clients in key regions such as the Middle East, Southeast Asia, India, West Africa, the Mediterranean, and the North Sea. This executive leadership position involves optimizing fleet performance, implementing best practices in safety and environmental stewardship, and managing the technical aspects of offshore drilling. The Chief Operating Officer's role is integral to maintaining Shelf Drilling's competitive advantage through specialized expertise and cost-efficient operations. By overseeing operational planning and resource allocation, Kurt Hoffman directly supports the company's mission to provide reliable drilling services. Hoffman's leadership ensures the continuous improvement of operational capabilities, aligning with the company's commitment to growth and client satisfaction in the upstream oilfield services sector.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Shelf Drilling Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Shelf Drilling?
    Shelf Drilling is led by Greg O'Brien (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Douglas Stewart (Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer) and Aaftaab Kharbanda (Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer).
    Who is part of Shelf Drilling’s executive team?
    The executive team of Shelf Drilling includes leaders such as Greg O'Brien (Chief Executive Officer), Douglas Stewart (Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer), Aaftaab Kharbanda (Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Shelf Drilling have?
    Shelf Drilling has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Shelf Drilling’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Shelf Drilling includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer, Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer, Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer.