Sempra Infrastructure, a subsidiary of Sempra (NYSE: SRE), announced that Bhavesh "Bob" Patel has been named incoming chief executive officer. Patel will assume the role upon the closing of a KKR-led consortium's previously announced acquisition of a majority ownership interest in the company.

Patel will also join Sempra Infrastructure's board of directors. Justin Bird will continue as chairman and CEO through the acquisition's close, after which he will serve as executive vice president at Sempra while remaining on Sempra Infrastructure's board.

Patel brings nearly 40 years of leadership experience in the global chemicals and energy sectors. He most recently served as president of Standard Industries and previously as CEO of LyondellBasell from 2015 to 2021. During his tenure at LyondellBasell, the company built new production facilities, expanded its presence in Asia and completed strategic acquisitions.

The leadership transition coincides with a KKR-led consortium's planned acquisition of a majority stake in Sempra Infrastructure, announced in September 2025. Upon closing, the consortium will hold a 65% equity stake, while Sempra will retain 25% alongside Abu Dhabi Investment Authority's existing 10% stake.

"Bob is a highly accomplished and respected global executive with deep experience leading complex energy, chemicals and industrial businesses," said Bird.

Patel previously held positions at Chevron and Chevron Phillips Chemical Company over approximately 20 years, including leadership roles in Singapore and the United States. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering from The Ohio State University and a Master of Business Administration from Temple University.

James Cunningham, partner at KKR, stated that Patel's experience leading large-scale global organizations makes him well-suited to lead the company forward.