Sempra Infrastructure has announced a key leadership appointment as the company moves toward a major ownership transition. The company said Bhavesh “Bob” Patel will become its next Chief Executive Officer after the closing of the previously announced acquisition of a majority ownership stake by a KKR-led investor consortium.
The announcement introduces a veteran energy and industrial executive to lead one of North America’s largest energy infrastructure businesses. Patel brings nearly 40 years of experience in the energy, chemicals, and manufacturing sectors.
Patel to Take Over Following Transaction Close
According to Sempra Infrastructure, Patel will assume the role of Chief Executive Officer once the KKR-led consortium completes its acquisition of a majority ownership interest in the company. He will also join the Sempra Infrastructure board of directors.
Current Chairman and CEO Justin Bird will continue to lead the company until the transaction closes. Afterward, Bird will remain on the Sempra Infrastructure board and continue serving as Executive Vice President at Sempra.
Jeffrey W. Martin, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Sempra, said Patel’s extensive industry experience, leadership background, and operational expertise make him well-suited to lead the company in its next chapter.
Nearly Four Decades of Industry Experience
Patel most recently served as President of Standard Industries, a privately held global industrial company. Before joining Standard Industries, he served as Chief Executive Officer of LyondellBasell from 2015 to 2021. During his time at the company, he oversaw operations across multiple global markets and led strategic business initiatives.
Earlier in his career, Patel spent approximately 20 years with Chevron and Chevron Phillips Chemical Company. He held several leadership positions in both the United States and Singapore during that period. Patel earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemical Engineering from The Ohio State University and later received a Master of Business Administration degree from Temple University.
Company Leaders Welcome Appointment
Justin Bird welcomed Patel’s appointment and described him as a highly respected global executive with significant experience leading large-scale businesses. Bird said Patel’s track record and leadership capabilities position him well to guide the company.
Patel also commented on his appointment, saying he is honored to join Sempra Infrastructure. He noted that the company operates a high-quality energy infrastructure platform across North America and has built a strong reputation through its focus on safety, execution, and operational performance.
Ownership Structure After Deal Completion
The leadership transition is tied to a transaction announced in September 2025 involving a KKR-led consortium.
Once the transaction closes, the consortium is expected to hold a 65% equity interest in Sempra Infrastructure. Sempra will retain a 25% ownership stake, while the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA) will continue to hold its existing 10% interest. James Cunningham, Partner at KKR, said the investment group has developed a strong relationship with the Sempra Infrastructure management team and expressed confidence in Patel’s ability to lead the company.
The appointment marks an important leadership change for Sempra Infrastructure as it prepares for the completion of the ownership transaction and the next phase of its corporate governance under the new shareholder structure.
