8-K: Phoenix Energy One Appoints David Scadden as New COO

Phoenix Energy One, LLC announced the immediate resignation of its Chief Operating Officer, Brandon Allen, and the appointment of David Scadden to the role.

Summary

• Brandon Allen resigned as Chief Operating Officer of Phoenix Energy One, LLC, effective November 3, 2025.
• Mr. Allen's resignation was not a result of any disagreement with the Company regarding its operations, policies, or practices.
• David Scadden was appointed as the Company's Chief Operating Officer, effective immediately on November 3, 2025.
• Mr. Scadden, age 35, previously served as the Company's Chief Execution Officer since September 2024.
• Prior to that, he was VP of Drilling and Completions for Phoenix Operating LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary, starting in February 2023.
• Mr. Scadden brings several years of operational oil & gas experience, including roles as Lead Drilling Engineer and Superintendent at Chord Energy from March 2021 to December 2022.
• He has contributed to drilling projects in various basins, including San Juan, Piceance, Denver-Julesburg, Eagle Ford Group, Granite Wash, and Williston Basin.
• No new compensatory agreements or material benefits were provided to Mr. Scadden in connection with his appointment as COO.
• There are no family relationships or related party transactions between Mr. Scadden and the Company's directors or executive officers that require disclosure.

Sentiment

Score: 6

Explanation: The sentiment is neutral to slightly positive. While a COO resignation can be a minor concern, the immediate replacement with an experienced internal candidate and the explicit statement that the resignation was not due to disagreements mitigate potential negative sentiment. The new COO's strong operational background is a positive for continuity.

Positives

• The company ensured a smooth leadership transition by immediately appointing an internal candidate, David Scadden, as COO.
• David Scadden possesses extensive operational oil & gas experience, both within Phoenix Energy One and with previous industry roles at Chord Energy, indicating strong qualifications for the position.
• The previous COO's resignation was explicitly stated as not being due to any disagreements with the company, suggesting a non-contentious departure.
• Mr. Scadden's background in drilling and completions across multiple basins demonstrates a deep understanding of the company's core operational activities.

Negatives

• The immediate resignation of a key executive like the Chief Operating Officer, even if stated as not due to disagreement, can sometimes introduce a degree of uncertainty.

Future Outlook

The filing does not contain any specific forward-looking statements or guidance regarding the company's future financial performance or strategic direction.

Management Comments

• Mr. Allen's resignation is not a result of any disagreement with the Company on any matter relating to the Company's operations, policies or practices.

Industry Context

The appointment of an experienced internal candidate with a strong background in drilling and completions, particularly across various American West basins, underscores the company's commitment to maintaining robust operational leadership in the competitive oil and gas sector. This move aligns with the industry's ongoing need for skilled professionals to manage complex exploration and production activities efficiently.

Management Changes

Stakeholder Impact

• Shareholders: The appointment of an experienced internal COO may provide continuity and stability in operational leadership, potentially reassuring investors.
• Employees: The transition of a key leadership role to an internal candidate could foster a sense of stability and career progression opportunities within the company.

Key Dates

Recommendation

This 8-K filing details a routine executive management change with the resignation of the COO and the immediate appointment of an experienced internal successor. There are no material financial disclosures, strategic shifts, or adverse events that would fundamentally alter the investment thesis for Phoenix Energy One. Investors should maintain their current position and monitor future operational performance under the new leadership, as this announcement alone does not warrant a change in recommendation.

Keywords

Phoenix Energy One, PHXE.P, Chief Operating Officer, COO, David Scadden, Brandon Allen, executive change, management change, oil & gas, energy, SEC filing, 8-K