The Honorable Francis R. Fannon was unanimously confirmed by the US Senate to serve as the inaugural Assistant Secretary of State for Energy Resources.

In serving as "America's Energy Diplomat," Mr Fannon led whole-of-government initiatives to open markets and build resilient supply chains. His work advanced major energy and infrastructure deals worth tens of billions of dollars.

Mr Fannon elevated global awareness that metals are foundational to a clean energy transition. He led efforts to help countries responsibly develop their mining sector and fostered more transparent critical minerals markets. Much of his work, including the multi-country Energy Resources Governance Initiative, continues to shape America’s critical minerals foreign policy.

Mr Fannon established BHP’s US Corporate Affairs function and led a comprehensive strategy to support the company’s evolving footprint and shape its climate change strategy. Before BHP, he led global Government Affairs for Murphy Oil Corporation.

Mr Fannon had a distinguished career in the US Senate, serving as counsel to the Committee on Environment & Public Works, where he negotiated key legislation, including the hydraulic fracturing provisions that unleashed the shale revolution.

He is currently Managing Director of Fannon Global Advisors, a premier strategic consultancy helping business leaders find opportunities in the energy transition.