Poten chairman emeritus Michael Tusiani confirms Smith, who stepped down from Golar LNG in May, is joining the company’s Project Development Department.

He says Smith will “initially” be based in Australia, where Poten has an office in Perth.

“Gary will focus on developing specific project opportunities but he will also support our LNG consulting, brokerage and business intelligence units,” Tusiani said.

Poten’s chief described Smith as “a very good man — as solid as they come — with an exceptional knowledge of energy overall and specifically LNG”.

“He