Canadian Natural Resources (NYSE:CNQ) is a senior independent oil and natural gas exploration, development and production company headquartered in Calgary, Alberta. Established in 1973, the firm has grown into one of Canada’s largest upstream operators, with a diversified portfolio of heavy and light crude oil, synthetic crude and natural gas assets. The company’s operations are focused on the exploration and development of oil sands in northern Alberta, conventional oil and natural gas in western Canada, and offshore production in the North Sea and select international jurisdictions.
In the oil sands, Canadian Natural operates major mining and in situ thermal projects, including its Horizon and North Athabasca mining operations. These facilities produce bitumen that is upgraded into synthetic crude, serving refineries in Canada and export markets. On the conventional side, the company’s extensive holdings in the Western Canadian Sedimentary Basin feature heavy oil and natural gas wells supported by integrated gathering and processing infrastructure. Beyond North America, offshore production in the U.K. North Sea contributes both oil and natural gas liquids to the company’s portfolio.
Founded as a private exploration company in the early 1970s, Canadian Natural Resources went public in 1995 and has since grown through strategic acquisitions and organic development. The company is led by President and Chief Executive Officer Tim McKay, supported by a management team with deep experience in petroleum engineering, geology and operations. Headquartered in Calgary, the firm maintains regional offices to support its exploration and production activities across multiple geographies.
Serving markets in North America, Europe and Asia, Canadian Natural focuses on operational efficiency and the application of advanced technologies to enhance recovery and reduce environmental impact. Its vertically integrated approach, from wellhead to delivery, underpins a long-term strategy centered on reliable supply, cost-effective production and continual capital reinvestment in core assets.
