Ecopetrol's Board Approves Unpaid Leave for President and Appoints Acting Leader

Leadership Change at Ecopetrol

Ecopetrol S.A., Colombia's largest company, recently held a board meeting on April 6, 2026, where significant decisions were made regarding its executive leadership. In a move that underscores the company’s commitment to a smooth transition in times of management changes, the board has approved an unpaid leave of absence for the company's President, Mr. Ricardo Roa Barragán.

The leave of absence is set to begin on May 28, 2026, for a duration of 30 calendar days. Before this period, Mr. Roa will take his accrued vacation days from April 7 to May 27, 2026. This arrangement has been sanctioned in accordance with the company's bylaws and internal governance framework, ensuring that the required protocols are followed.

In Mr. Roa's absence, the Board of Directors has entrusted Mr. Juan Carlos Hurtado Parra, the current Executive Vice President of Hydrocarbons, to take on the role of Acting President. Hurtado is not a stranger to leadership, having been the first alternate to the President since November 2025. His vast background includes serving as Vice President of Exploration, Development, and Production at Ecopetrol, and he boasts an impressive résumé with a specialization in Project Evaluation and Development, alongside a Master's in Business Administration (MBA) in International Oil and Gas.

With over 28 years in the energy sector, including substantial experience within Ecopetrol and prior executive roles at Transportadora de Gas Internacional (TGI), Mr. Hurtado is well-equipped to guide the company during this interim period. The leadership transition comes at a time when Ecopetrol continues to push forward with its corporate strategies amidst a dynamic energy landscape with increasing demands for sustainable practices and technological innovation.

Ecopetrol remains a pivotal player in Colombia’s economy, contributing over 60% of the nation’s hydrocarbon production and leading many of the logistical frameworks in refining and distribution. The company is also notable for its strategic acquisitions, including a controlling stake in the transmission company ISA, which expands its role beyond just hydrocarbons to encompass power transmission and the management of critical infrastructure across multiple countries in Latin America.

This operational diversity is essential as Ecopetrol navigates an array of challenges, including market fluctuations, regulatory changes, and the ongoing need to adapt to global shifts towards greener energy alternatives. Stakeholders have expressed confidence in the company’s strategic direction, emphasizing the importance of a seamless leadership transition to maintain operational stability.

As the company moves forward, it emphasizes its commitment to transparency and stakeholder engagement, which were key factors in the board's decisions. The supportive environment fosters an atmosphere of resilience and strategic agility, key traits for thriving in the highly competitive and evolving energy markets.

Ecopetrol keeps its focus on the principles of sustainability, operational excellence, and innovation, ensuring its long-term viability and relevance in a rapidly changing world. The upcoming leadership transition marks a continuation of its commitment to these principles, alongside its established legacy as a leader in the energy sector.

Continued updates will be provided to keep all employees and stakeholders informed as the company proceeds with its corporate agenda and focuses on delivering value amidst the leadership evolution.

For further details, please reach out to the Investor Relations office or the Corporate Communications department, ensuring that your inquiries are addressed effectively.

This announcement contains forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. As the company strives towards its goals, actual results may differ, influenced by factors such as market prices, competition, and operational performance. Updates will not be provided on these forward-looking statements unless deemed necessary by the company’s management.