Leadership

Leadership

INOVA is an independently managed company 100% owned by BGP, a wholly owned subsidiary of China National Petroleum Corporation ("CNPC"). BGP is one of the world's largest land geophysical service contractors, offering 2D, 3D, 4D, VSP, and multicomponent field services to E&P clients through more than 50 international seismic crews in 45 countries. BGP also provides geophysical field services that extend beyond seismic, including surveys that require gravity, magnetic, electromagnetic, and geo-chemical measurements. INOVA operates with a separate, independent management structure overseen by a Board of Directors. The Board is currently comprised of seven directors, all of whom are appointed by CNPC.

Board of Directors

  • Luo Lunchao, Board Chairman 

  • Atle Jacobsen, Deputy Board Chairman 

  • Xu Xidong, Director and Secretary General of the Board 

  • Wang Boshi, Director 

  • Li Rui, Director

  • Zeng Ping, Director

  • Xia Ying, Director

Management

Atle Jacobsen – CEO

Mr. Jacobsen was appointed CEO of INOVA in 2026. He brings more than 30 years of experience in the international geophysical industry, with extensive expertise in seismic operations, business development, and executive management. Prior to joining INOVA, Mr. Jacobsen spent approximately 10 years with BGP as the Executive Vice President of BGP offshore, where he was involved in the development and growth of its offshore business. During his time with BGP, the offshore business grew more than five times in activity, contributing to the company's international growth. Mr. Jacobsen was instrumental, together with the BGP Offshore team, in establishing Caspian Geo in 2018, where he continues to serve as a Board Member. Before joining BGP, Mr. Jacobsen co-founded Dolphin Geophysical in 2010 and served as its CEO, leading the company through a period of rapid growth. Under his leadership, Dolphin expanded its activities across marine seismic acquisition, multi-Client data, and seismic processing. Previously, he served as its founder and CEO of Wavefield Inseis, which was acquired by CGG Veritas in 2008. Throughout his career, Mr. Jacobsen has emphasized the importance of strong teams, earning respect through dedication, and putting the right people in the right roles. His extensive experience working in multicultural organizations has also shaped his approach to leadership, collaboration, and continuous adaptation. Mr. Jacobsen's industry expertise and strategic vision will support INOVA's continued growth and development in the global geophysical market.

Li Rui – President

Mr. Li Rui was appointed President of INOVA in December 2024. Prior to his position, Mr. Li held the General Manager at BGP ADNOC Project, where he was responsible for offshore projects in UAE. Mr. Li had an extensive career in the geophysical industry, including roles as Party Chief and Project Manager on various international projects. His experience spans across different projects and clients, notably contributing to significant offshore operations in China and the Middle East. With 15 years of work and management experience, Mr. Li brings a deep understanding among the geophysical industry. His strategic vision and commitment to innovation will guide INOVA towards achieving its further business goals. Mr. Li has a Bachelor's and Master's degree in Geological Engineering from the China University of Petroleum.

Gavin Pulford – Chief Financial Officer

Mr. Pulford is responsible for international finance, human resources, legal and IT for INOVA. He is a strategic finance and operations leader with extensive international management experience and has held senior and other financial management positions in South Africa, England, Canada, and the USA. Mr. Pulford holds a Bachelor of Business Administration in Cost and Management Accounting and a Bachelor of Business Administration in Production Management.

Yan Guo Ping – Chief Operating Officer

Mr. Yan was appointed Chief Operations Officer in June 2024. Previously, he served as the Vice President of Overseas Operations at BGP Offshore, where he successfully managed and coordinated the company's international operations. Before joining INOVA, Mr. Yan was the Technical and Resources Manager at Caspian Geo, overseeing technical support and resource management for the company's operations. With over 38 years of extensive experience in the oil and gas geophysics industry, Mr. Yan brings exceptional expertise and leadership to his role. He holds a Master's Degree in Enterprise Management from the Capital University of Economics and Business in Beijing, China.

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