Sawan, 48, currently oversees Shell's growth into low carbon energies, as well as its giant gas business. He was seen as the front-runner to succeed van Beurden, Reuters reported earlier this month, and will inherit one of the industry's most ambitious green targets.

Here are some facts on the new boss:

* A Canadian citizen of Lebanese origin, Sawan has been heading Shell's integrated gas, renewables and energy solutions division since November 2021.

* Sawan begins as CEO on Jan. 1 and Shell Chair Andrew Mackenzie said of his appointment: "Wael Sawan is an exceptional leader, with all the qualities needed to drive Shell safely and profitably through its next phase of transition and growth."

* Born in Beirut in July 1974, Sawan grew up in Dubai and is an alumni of Harvard Business School. He graduated with a master's degree in chemical engineering from Canada's McGill University.

* Sawan joined Shell in 1997 and has been a member of the group's executive committee for three years.

* Before taking up his current role, Sawan was director of Shell's upstream business where he oversaw the divestment of the Permian business and decision to exit onshore Nigeria.

* Sawan also had stints with Shell's deepwater and Qatar operations during a 25-year career spanning roles in Europe, Africa, Asia and the Americas.

* The 48-year old has three sons with wife Nicole.

(Sources: Shell website, company press releases, Reuters reporting and LinkedIn)

(Reporting by Muhammed Husain and Aby Jose Koilparambil in Bengaluru; Editing by Muralikumar Anantharaman and Mark Potter)