Peter Voser, chief executive of Europe's biggest oil company, said 2012 was a year of "headwinds".

BBC: Royal Dutch Shell profits hit by oil price volatility

Shell chief executive Peter Voser said the figures showed "progress in a difficult industry environment".

BBC: Royal Dutch Shell and Exxon Mobil see profits fall

Peter Voser, 54, said he wanted to spend more time with his family and that he was leaving for a "change in lifestyle".

BBC: Royal Dutch Shell chief executive Peter Voser to retire

In a meeting with investors in November, Shell CEO Peter Voser ticked off how the firm is investing today to capitalize on long-term global demand.

FORBES: Shell's 5% Dividend Yield (Part 2): Will Huge Capital Spending Pay Off?

What would you do if you were Shell CEO Peter Voser?

FORBES: Why Shell Should Just Quit Its Alaska Drilling Fiasco