8-KLeadership Changes

ENTERPRISE PRODUCTS PARTNERS L.P. 8-K Report, Executive Changes (Sep 1, 2016)

Filed September 1, 2016For Securities:EPDEPDU

Summary

This 8-K filing from Enterprise Products Partners L.P. (EPD) officially announces the retirement of Senior Vice President, Controller and Principal Accounting Officer Michael J. Knesek, effective August 31, 2016. The company has appointed R. Daniel Boss as Senior Vice President-Accounting and Risk Control and Michael W. Hanson as Vice President and Principal Accounting Officer, with these changes also taking effect on August 31, 2016. These executive changes appear to be a planned transition, as Mr. Knesek's intent to retire was previously disclosed. The appointments of Mr. Boss and Mr. Hanson reflect internal promotions and a focus on continuity within the accounting and risk control functions. Investors can take comfort in the fact that these roles are being filled by individuals with significant experience within Enterprise Products Partners and its affiliates, mitigating potential disruption.

Key Highlights

  • 1Michael J. Knesek has retired as Senior Vice President, Controller, and Principal Accounting Officer, effective August 31, 2016.
  • 2R. Daniel Boss has been appointed as Senior Vice President-Accounting and Risk Control.
  • 3Michael W. Hanson has been appointed as Vice President and Principal Accounting Officer.
  • 4The appointments of Mr. Boss and Mr. Hanson were effective concurrently with Mr. Knesek's retirement.
  • 5Mr. Boss has extensive experience in risk management, including serving as Chairman of Enterprise GP's Risk Management Committee and overseeing marketing risk management.
  • 6Mr. Hanson has a long tenure with Enterprise Products Partners, holding various accounting roles since 1992, and is responsible for financial reporting.
  • 7The transition of these key accounting roles appears to be a planned succession, with internal candidates taking over responsibilities.

Frequently Asked Questions

The significance for investors lies in the smooth and planned transition of key accounting and financial reporting roles. The appointment of R. Daniel Boss and Michael W. Hanson, both with extensive experience within Enterprise Products Partners, suggests continuity and stability in financial oversight and reporting, which is crucial for investor confidence.

R. Daniel Boss, 41, brings a strong background in risk control and accounting for regulated businesses, having held leadership roles in risk management and commodity derivatives accounting. Michael W. Hanson, 49, has a long history with the company, dating back to 1992, and has been responsible for the financial reporting group, including the preparation of SEC filings. Both have significant internal experience.

No, Mr. Knesek's retirement was not unexpected. The filing notes that he gave notice of his intent to retire on February 29, 2016, and the company had already elected Mr. Boss and Mr. Hanson on May 11, 2016, to assume their new roles concurrently with his retirement.

Given that Mr. Hanson, who has been responsible for financial reporting and preparing SEC filings, will continue to lead that group and report to Mr. Boss, who has extensive risk control and accounting oversight experience, significant disruption to financial reporting is unlikely. The transition appears well-managed.