WPX Energy’s board of directors has unanimously elected Richard E.“Rick” Muncrief as it next chairman, effective Jan. 1, 2017. Muncrief also is WPX’s president and chief executive officer, positions he has held since May 15, 2014. He succeeds William G. Lowrie, who will become the board’s lead independent director. Lowrie has been WPX’s chairman since its spinoff five years ago and played an instrumental role in strengthening the senior management team. Lowrie will continue to work closely with Mr. Muncrief as a lead director charter the company has adopted. Mr. Muncrief’s performance review for his role as chairman will be in addition to the performance review for his role as CEO.