Richard A. Varela, previous executive director of the Texas Railroad Commission, has been tapped as the new executive vice president of the Texas Independent Producers and Royalty Owners Association, according to TIPRO President Walter “Tad” Mayfield.

“As a 40-year veteran of the oil and gas industry, Varela understands the regulatory, political and economic challenges we independents face,” he said.

The association also announced the promotion of Donna Warndof to vice president of Public Affairs.

Varela was chosen for his experience as the Executive Director at the Texas Railroad Commission directing the regulatory, management and operations of the statewide agency overseeing upstream oil and gas production in Texas consisting of 700+ employees and an annual budget exceeding $65 million. “I’m pleased to bring my expertise to an organization I respect and look forward to advocating for independents and royalty owners in these challenging times,” said Varela.

With more than 2,000 members, TIPRO is a statewide trade association representing independent oil and natural gas producers and royalty owners.

Founded in 1946, TIPRO members range from small family-owned companies to the largest publicly traded independents as well as mineral estates and trusts.

Varela brings to TIPRO insight to the EVP position with an extensive background as an engineer, an executive and a political insider who will use his wisdom and experience to represent TIPRO members to the RRC, Texas Legislature, and the public.

“I’m eager to use my knowledge of industry, people and programs to further TIPRO’s vision and goals,” Varela commented.

Varela begins his service to TIPRO on Jan. 4, 2010

Mayfield said, “As a 40- year veteran of the oil and gas industry, Varela understands the regulatory, political and economic challenges we independents face.

“Our Board is assured that as the sevent execuive vice president in TIPRO’s 63- year history, he’ll continue the excellence in leadership members expect as the venerable exploration and production Association in Texas.”