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Pharming Group N.V.

phar · NASDAQ Healthcare
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FY2019 Annual Report · Pharming Group N.V.
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Annual Report
and Accounts
2019

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1.Pharos Energy 5922 AR Cover_20-04-06.indd   1

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Pharos Energy is an independent  
oil and gas exploration and production 
company with a focus on sustainable 
growth and returns to stakeholders.

Headquartered in London and listed  
on the London Stock Exchange, we have 
production, development and exploration 
interests in Egypt, Israel and Vietnam. 

www.pharos.energy

STRATEGIC REPORT 

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Company overview
Where we operate

Investment case

  People and experience

  Financial stability

  Clear operational strategy

  Operating sustainably

Chair’s welcome
Market overview
CEO’s statement
Core strategic objectives
Business model
Key metrics
Operations review
Financial review
Risk management
Risks
Corporate Responsibility

02
03

04

05

06

08

10
14
16
20
22
24
26
42
46
49
56

Independent Auditor’s Report

Consolidated Income Statement

Consolidated Statement of 
Comprehensive Income

Balance Sheets

122

131

131

132

Statements of Changes in Equity 133

Cash Flow Statements

Notes to the Consolidated 
Financial Statements

134

135

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION 

Non-IFRS Measures

Five Year Summary

Reserves Statistics

Report on Payments  
to Governments

Glossary of Terms

Company Information

156

158

158

 159

161

162

GOVERNANCE REPORT 

Chair’s Introduction  
74
to Governance
80
Board of Directors
82
Corporate Governance Report
Nominations Committee Report
86
Audit and Risk Committee Report 90

Directors‘ Remuneration Report

Directors’ Report

96

118

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Our new  
name reflects
a refreshed 
business

We have a diverse and 
complementary portfolio in Asia 
and MENA, a robust and disciplined 
capital allocation framework and  
a solid commitment to operating  
in a sustainable way. We are well 
positioned for a positive future.

As a business, our ability to  
deliver value is key to our robust 
stakeholder investment case. 

A diverse team

Financial stability

Clear operational strategy

A sustainable business

PAGE 04

PAGE 05

PAGE 06

PAGE 08

ED STORY, PRESIDENT AND CEO

2.Pharos Energy 5922 AR IFC_20-04-08.indd   1

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCE REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONPharos at  
a glance

2019 KEY FIGURES

2019 GROUP HIGHLIGHTS 

FOUNDING YEAR 

EMPLOYEES 

LOST TIME INJURY FREQUENCY (LTIF) 
(Per million man-hours) 

REVENUE
($m) 

1997

66

Zero

$189.7m

COUNTRIES 

BLOCKS & LICENCES 

CASH OPERATING COSTS
($/boe)

RETURN TO SHAREHOLDERS
(Pence per ordinary share)

3

14

$10.45/boe

5.5p

ACREAGE KM2 

OIL & GAS FIELDS 

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS  
($m)

AVERAGE NET PRODUCTION
(boepd)*

20,537

12

$58.5m

12,136 boepd

>  Read more
  Non-IFRS measures on page 156

NET LOSS 

($24.5m)

02

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019WHERE WE OPERATE

Agile, decisive, 
productive

Our production, 
development and 
exploration assets 
in Egypt, Israel and 
Vietnam place Pharos  
in a good position  
for future growth.

>  Read more
  Operations review page 26

EGYPT (D,P,E)

ISRAEL (E)

VIETNAM (D,P,E)

We have high quality oil production 
operations, development and 
exploration assets in Egypt, building  
our scale and creating significant 
opportunities. We continue to work  
with local teams to generate value  
and evolve the assets into a viable 
production and development business.

Pharos, Cairn Energy plc and Israel's 
Ratio Oil Exploration were successful in 
their bid for eight licences in the second 
offshore bid round in Israel. Each party 
has an equal working interest and Cairn 
is the operator.

We have valuable and long-established 
assets in Vietnam. Production is from  
two fields (TGT & CNV) and further 
potential for growth from two additional 
exploration blocks (Blocks 125 & 126).

2019 AVERAGE PRODUCTION

WORKING INTEREST

5,055 bopd*

33.33%

D: Development  P: Production  E: Exploration

* Egypt production from 2 April to 31 December 2019.

2019 AVERAGE PRODUCTION  
(net)

7,081 boepd

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCE REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONINVESTMENT CASE – PEOPLE AND EXPERIENCE

Diversity  
helps deliver 
our strategy

Diversity and Inclusion give  
us a broad and well-informed  
global outlook.

Diversity and Inclusion remain important  
in our business. We have a workforce with  
a diversity of experience, nationalities, 
cultural backgrounds and gender. This 
diversity gives us a wide and well-informed 
global outlook, and drives our strategy, 
which is based on business efficiency and 
new ventures.

We are very proud of the number of 
women we have in the London office; 
five out of six Group Heads of Function  
posts are filled by women.

Local focus
We acquire business assets as part of our 
growth strategy, and integrate the existing 
management teams to benefit from their 
regional knowledge and experience, 
ensuring we grow the assets to their full 
potential. We apply our expertise locally 
with operational teams in each region, 
working closely with joint operating 
companies.

Changes to the Board  
bringing deeper experience
In 2019, significant changes to the Board 
occurred. A new NED joined the Board and 
a new Chair was announced. The Company 
is committed to good governance and will 
continue to review the balance and 
effectiveness of the Board commensurate 
with our size and needs.

04

>  Read more
 Corporate 
Governance Report 
page 82 and 
Corporate 
Responsibility Report 
page 56

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
INVESTMENT CASE – FINANCIAL STABILITY

Good capital 
discipline remains 
core to Pharos

Capital discipline and financial stability have 
always been key to the Company and 
continue to underpin the business. Investment 
decisions are taken to allocate capital where it 
will provide the best full-cycle risk-adjusted 
returns. The balance sheet remained strong 
throughout 2019 and the Company had solid 
cash flows, low cash operating costs and 
low gearing. 

OUR HISTORY OF SHAREHOLDER RETURNS

2006

Purchase of own shares

2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
2016
2017
2018
2019

Purchase of own shares
Purchase of own shares
Cash returns
Cash returns
Dividend
Dividend
Dividend
Dividend
Dividend

>  Read more

 Financial review 
page 42

$13.6m

$6.8m
$32.9m
$213.3m
$119.2m
$51.1m
$17.5m 
$21.0m
$23.3m
$27.4m

CAPITAL ALLOCATION FRAMEWORK

Funding robust
•  Strong operational cash flow

•  Active hedging programme

•  Gearing remains low

Flexibility in allocation
•  Low commitments

•  Development through drilling

•  Facilities already in place

•  Includes dividends as measure of discipline

•  High-grade investment opportunities using a number of metrics

•  Long-term potential in Israel

Commitment to  
sustainable dividend
•  Integral part of approach to cost control

•  Egyptian asset provides sustainability

•  All opportunities screened  

for cash generation 

OUR STRONG CASH POSITION
$m

400

300

200

100

0

$72.3m

$63.4m

$240.1m

$153.1m

Operating CF 

Cash 
balance at 
31 December 
2018
(cash and cash 
equivalents and
liquid investments)

Investing 
activities – 
capital 
expenditure

Cash 
consideration 
for acquisition 
of Merlon
(Net of cash
acquired)

$10.0m

$27.4m

Other 
cash outflows

Dividends 
paid

$58.5m

Cash 
balance at 
31 December 
2019
(cash and cash 
equivalents)

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0505

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCE REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONPharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCE REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION 
INVESTMENT CASE – CLEAR OPERATIONAL STRATEGY

Pursuing low-cost 
organic and  
inorganic growth 
opportunities

E&P company focused  
on Asia and MENA region 

Egypt
An evolving energy  
hub for the Eastern 
Mediterranean

MENA region – a key focus

Egypt is a dynamic and growing 
economy, providing a stable business 
environment

Oil producing asset with visible  
growth trajectory 

Expert operational teams in Egypt

The Western Desert – one of the  
largest discovered resources

The El Fayum Concession is located in  
the low-cost and highly prolific Western 
Desert, about 80km south west of Cairo  
and close to local energy infrastructure.  
It is operated by Petrosilah, a 50/50 joint 
venture (JV) between Pharos and the 
Egyptian General Petroleum Corporation 
(EGPC). On 24 December 2019, Pharos 
signed for the North Beni Suef (NBS) 
Concession which is located immediately 
south of the El Fayum Concession.

Growth opportunities
•  Implementation of a low-cost multi-well 

producer and water-injector programme  
to optimise the development of the 
discovered oil resources in El Fayum. 

•  The evaluation of the low-cost oil 
potential of the recently awarded  
North Beni Suef Concession in Egypt.

06

EL FAYUM IN NUMBERS

100%

OIL

100%

WORKING INTEREST

28.5

MMBBL OF 2P RESERVES

5,055

BOPD 2019 PRODUCTION

EGYPT

Esra area

Silah Base

North Beni Suef
Concession

CAIRO

Suez Oil refinery

El Fayum 
Concession

10OIL FIELDS  

AT THE EL FAYUM 
CONCESSION

6,880km2

ACREAGE  
(EL FAYUM AND  
NORTH BENI SUEF)

Red Sea

>  Read more

 Operations review 
page 26

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Vietnam
A valued asset with renewed 
growth opportunity

OVER $1 BILLION INVESTED  
IN VIETNAM BY THE JOC OVER 20 YEARS

$1 billion
7,081 boepd

AVERAGE NET PRODUCTION IN 2019  
FROM THE TGT AND CNV FIELDS

Vietnam remains one of the 
fastest-growing economies in the 
Asia-Pacific region

Two significant discoveries:

•  Ca Ngu Vang (CNV) Field 
̶  Discovered in 2002 
̶  First production in 2008

•  Te Giac Trang (TGT) Field 
̶  Discovered in 2005 
̶  First production in 2011

Highly experienced team in Vietnam

Majority of oil is sold domestically  
to a local refinery at a strong premium 
to Brent

Current exploration activities in Blocks 
125 & 126 in the Phu Khanh Basin

M&A 
strategy

Pharos continues to evaluate M&A 
opportunities with reference to our 
strict strategic, financial and 
operational criteria. We only pursue 
transactions if they are determined by 
the Board to be in the best interests of 
shareholders. 

Israel
A major source  
of potential gas  

8LICENCES

Pharos’ current producing interests,  
the TGT and CNV Fields, together are 
amongst Vietnam’s largest oil producers. 
We have further potential for growth  
from two additional exploration blocks 
(Blocks 125 & 126). We continue to have  
an excellent safety record in Vietnam, and 
look to maintain this. 

Growth opportunities:
•  The appraisal of the deep  

Oligocene tight oil potential  
at TGT in offshore Vietnam. 

•  The evaluation of the transformational  

oil potential in Blocks 125 & 126 in  
the undrilled Phu Khanh Basin  
offshore Vietnam.

In October 2019, Pharos, Cairn Energy 
plc and Israel’s Ratio Oil Exploration 
were awarded eight licences offshore 
Israel. This provides geographical 
diversification and also offers 
transformational gas potential 
complementing our majority oil 
producing assets.

There will be a minimum work 
programme in the initial phases which 
includes re-evaluation of the potential of 
the acreage by integrating all available 
data, and reprocessing of 3D seismic 
data over high-graded prospects in 
each licence.

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCE REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONINVESTMENT CASE – OPERATING SUSTAINABLY 

Continued 
commitment  
to operating  
a sustainable 
business

Responsibility  
framework

Our goal is to be a positive presence in the 
regions in which we operate, by providing 
responsible and sustainable development, 
resulting in delivering value for host countries 
and local communities as well as for our own 
shareholders and employees.

ENVIRONMENT CASE STUDY

Minimising our impact 
on the environment
Reduction in GHG emissions 
Through Phase One utilisation of 
associated-gas powered electricity 
generators with further Phase Two 
reductions in progress

Elimination of 730,000 litres  
of diesel use per year and  
associated emissions

30% reduction of flared gas at 
North Silah Deep

ENVIRONMENT

SOCIETY

Reduction initiatives to  
improve GHG emissions in 
Egypt and Vietnam

$400,000 combined total 
training levies in Vietnam and 
Egypt for industry capacity 
building in 2019

$245,379 community  
and charitable investments  
through the HLHVJOC 
Charitable Donation Programme 
supporting 12 partnerships and 
projects in Vietnam in 2019

08

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019SOCIETY CASE STUDY

Working in harmony 
with our community
Vietnam 

Donated 400 sets of new tables and 
chairs to 1,410 students in Hoang Van 
Thu High School in Vietnam 

Supported children with autism at Binh 
Minh Social Assistance Centre and 
Minh Anh Specialised Education 
Centre through financial support

BUSINESS

ETHICS

PEOPLE

~99%TGT/ CNV Oil  
100% El Fayum Oil sold and 
used domestically, contributing 
to host country development 
goals and access to energy

100% of staff received 
anti-bribery and corruption 
training

Zero Lost Time Injury since 
incorporation in Vietnam and in 
Egypt for the past five years

$232.7m taxes and royalties  
paid to host governments  
in 2019

5/6 of UK Head of 
Department positions  
are filled by women

4.Pharos Energy 5922 AR Investment-Case_20-04-08.indd   9

 Zero

LOST TIME INJURY 
FREQUENCY RATE

>  Read more
 Corporate  
Responsibility 
page 56

09

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCE REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION 
CHAIR'S WELCOME

A sustainable 
business 

2019 was a year of transition for Pharos. The highlights  
of the year include the successful completion of the 
transaction to acquire the El Fayum Concession in Egypt, 
the award of new licences in Israel and Egypt, and 
enhancements of Environmental, Social and Governance 
(ESG) matters throughout the business including new 
independent Board appointments and the maintenance  
of our exceptional safety record in Vietnam. 

The Egyptian transaction was completed  
on 2 April 2019. The El Fayum Concession 
complements and diversifies our portfolio, 
which now has two separate regional 
producing centres. This timely achievement is 
testament to the quality and professionalism 
of the team and the strong relationships 
that have been established in country.  
We welcomed our new colleagues in Cairo 
and El Fayum and have worked to integrate 
the new and existing businesses, at the 
same time managing an expanded work 
programme of activities in Egypt. 

To reflect this new phase in our history, we 
rebranded the Company as Pharos Energy 
plc. The timing and choice of the new name 
reflect our entry into Egypt and more 
broadly the Group’s new focus on the 
MENA region in addition to its traditional 
operating hub in South East Asia. The word 
Pharos is most commonly associated with 
the Lighthouse of Alexandria, one of the 
traditional Seven Wonders of the Ancient 
World. The name change symbolises the 
development and evolution of the 
corporate values of the Group to reflect 
our continuing commitment to operating  
a sustainable business and focussing on 
environmental awareness, safety,  
openness and good governance.

Safety across our business is paramount 
and remains the highest priority on the 
Board agenda. We are pleased to report 
that our joint operations in Vietnam continue 
to achieve a high level of safe operations 
with an exceptional record of safety, 
reporting zero Lost Time Injury (LTIs) since 
operational inception, representing eight 

10

production years on TGT and 11 production 
years on CNV. In Egypt, our activities and 
forward plans have been focused on 
improving HSES standards. We are pleased 
to report zero LTIs since we acquired the 
Egyptian asset and there have been no  
LTIs in Egypt since 2015. The Petrosilah  
Joint Venture has achieved ISO 14001 
(Environmental) and ISO 45001 (Health and 
Safety) certification in Egypt. In evaluating 
new off-take options for El Fayum crude, 
HSES standards were one of the key 
considerations in identifying a new refinery 
as our delivery destination point. The 
transport route to and from the refinery 
avoids built-up and residential areas and 
offers safer driving conditions on a fully 
tarmacked road leading directly to  
the refinery. 

Energy transition is being carefully 
considered by the Board. In our view, 
demand for oil and gas will continue to be an 
important component of the global energy 
mix over many future decades. We see a 
place for Pharos in responsibly developing 
oil and gas resources to aid global 
economic development and in delivering 
value for all our stakeholders. We believe 
that in the future, countries such as Egypt 
and Vietnam can continue to have economic 
and social benefits from the responsible 
development of their natural resources and 
we are committed to doing this in a 
responsible and sustainable way. 

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019Safety across our business is paramount. 
Pharos’ joint operations continue to 
achieve an exceptional record of safety 
and have maintained commitment to 
local sourcing, employment, training  
and industry upskilling. 

Rui de Sousa 
Non-Executive Chair

INTRODUCING  
OUR NEW CHAIR

John Martin 
Date of handover, 13 March 2020

John Martin, Independent 
Non-Executive Director

“I am very pleased to be taking on the 
role as Chair, having served as an 
Independent Non-Executive Director. 
I see great potential in the Company 
and have already seen significant 
changes and progress during 
my tenure. 

I look forward to continuing to work 
with Ed and the Board as we work to 
focus on delivering the full potential  
of the Company’s opportunities and 
return to growth when so much  
work has been done to refresh the 
Company’s portfolio, its governance 
and its Board.”

On page 49, we set out our assssment  
of the principal risks facing the business. 
Climate change is one of the key drivers of 
energy transition and is considered to be a 
principal risk. Climate change is considered 
in all our key business decisions and 
particularly in any new business 
opportunities. A key part of the Board’s 
investment decision to bid for the eight 
licences, prospective for gas, offshore 
Israel was the opportunity to diversify from 
mainly oil production to a balanced oil and 
gas portfolio. We recognise the need to 
reduce any impact of our operations on 
the environment and to reduce greenhouse 
gas emissions (GHG) and are continually 
assessing initiatives to reduce GHG in our 
operations. For example, in Egypt, we have 
moved to using associated-gas powered 
electricity generators rather than 
diesel-powered generators to reduce 
diesel usage and gas going to flare. Another 
initiative involves investigating ways in 
which solar panels can be used to generate 
electrical power at satellite sites. Further 
details of these initiatives can be found in 
the Corporate Responsibility Report on 
page 56. In Vietnam, we work closely  
with our state-owned partners and the 
Government to mitigate the impacts of  
our joint operations on climate change. 

We have also been active in recognising 
the growing requirements from our 
shareholders and other stakeholders for 
increased transparency concerning the 
impact on the environment from our 
business decisions. 

We continue to provide full disclosure of 
our emissions, discharges and water usage. 
From a financial perspective, we support 
the implementation of the requirements of 
the Task Force on Climate-related Financial 
Disclosures (TCFD) and we have begun 
work on how we can meet these 
disclosures. Over the past three years, we 
have also participated in the CDP Climate 
Change Questionnaire and improved our 
score from the previous year. 

Pharos remains committed to creating 
value for host countries and local 
communities as well as for staff and 
shareholders. In Vietnam, commitment to 
local sourcing, employment, training and 
industry capacity building has continued 
with a training levy of $300,000 per year in 
a ring-fenced fund to support developing 
future Vietnamese expertise in the industry. 
In Egypt, under the El Fayum and North 
Beni Suef Concession Agreements, the 
Company contributes a total of $200,000 
per year split equally between the two 
Concessions to support training and 
development within the industry. 

In Vietnam, we continue to invest in a 
programme of long-term social projects 
through the HLHVJOC Charitable Donation 
Programme. For example, this year, 
donations were made to the Hoang Van Thu 
High School, which has 1,410 students, to 
replace 400 sets of tables and chairs that 
were damaged due to flash floods. 

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCE REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONCHAIR'S WELCOME CONTINUED

Culture and values 
Pharos Energy represents more than just 
 a name, it represents our values. A staff 
workshop was held to facilitate a review  
of our values and culture to reflect the 
Company we are today. The way we work 
and do business is based on five guiding 
principles, which we call The Pharos Way; 
Safety & Care, Energy & Challenge, 
Openness & Integrity, Empowerment & 
Accountability, and Pragmatism & Focus. 
They are important to the Board and 
important to our staff. Our approach  
is driven by the strength, skills and 
pragmatism of our people, and our  
shared purpose to have a positive  
impact on everything we do. 

The Board is committed to and engaged in 
fostering a genuine two-way dialogue 
between the Company and the workforce. 
This year, a workforce engagement session 
was held for London staff with John Martin, 
who is the designated Non-Executive 
Director for workforce engagement. 
Feedback from the meeting has resulted in 
positive changes across the organisation 
including improved communications and 
implementation of online HR processes. 
The Board remains hugely committed to 
this engagement and looks forward to 
developing this further.

Diversity and Inclusion remain important  
in our business. We reap the benefits that  
staff with diverse experience, perspectives 
and expertise have on our business.  
We currently have a team of 30 staff based 
in our London corporate head office and 

are very proud of the fact that women 
represent 60% of this workforce. Five out 
of six Group Heads of Function posts are 
also filled by women. Our diversity of 
experience, nationalities, cultural 
backgrounds, and genders gives us a broad 
and well-informed global outlook and helps 
drive our strategy. 

Providing the right development 
opportunities to ensure existing staff have 
rewarding careers is also a focus at Pharos. 
We continue to support the ongoing 
development of long-term careers in all of 
our staff and empower them with training, 
lunch-and-learn sessions run by the staff 
and external courses.

In Egypt, we have established a 
gender-neutral recruitment process and, 
wherever possible, ensure that any 
vacancy is filled by an Egyptian national. 

Board changes
Marianne Daryabegui was appointed as an 
Independent Non-Executive Director with 
effect from 15 March 2019. Marianne has 
extensive experience in oil and gas 
corporate transactions and capital  
markets. Ambassador António Monteiro, 
Non-Executive Director, retired from the 
Board of Pharos following conclusion of the 
Annual General Meeting (AGM) on 23 May 
2019. In 2020, further Board changes will 
occur. In January 2020, Pharos announced 
that Ettore Contini, Non-Executive Director, 
would not stand for re-election to the 
Board of Pharos at the upcoming 2020 
AGM, following 18 years of service. 

The programme continued its support of  
the Light Your Hope Scholarship Fund,  
which helps students from low-income 
backgrounds to pursue their academic 
studies at colleges and universities in 
Vietnam. Further information about our 
community projects can be found in our 
Corporate Responsibility Report on page 56. 
In Egypt, we are in the process of assessing 
where we can make the most valuable 
contribution to long-term social projects, 
both at the local level and more widely.

To reflect Pharos’ ongoing commitment  
to operating a sustainable business, the 
Board has established the ESG Committee, 
with delegated authority from the Board.  
The ESG Committee, chaired by John Martin, 
takes responsibility for overseeing and 
directing Pharos’ work towards the goal of 
establishing and maintaining the highest 
operating standards across Environment, 
Social and Governance matters.

12

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019Geoffrey Green will be appointed as an 
Independent Non-Executive Director with 
effect from conclusion of the Company’s 
upcoming AGM. On 11 March 2020, we 
announced the appointment of Lisa Mitchell, 
as an Independent Non-Executive Director 
with effect from 1 April 2020. John Martin, 
who was appointed as an Independent 
Non-Executive Director on 7 June 2018, will 
become Chair of the Board of Directors with 
effect from 13 March 2020, the date of my 
retirement. Having previously indicated my 
intention to retire, this appointment comes 
after a selection process, with Korn Ferry as 
search consultants, to identify a successor. 

I am delighted that John Martin will 
succeed me as Chair and I wish him all the 
best in his new role. John has contributed a 
great deal of knowledge and expertise 
during his tenure as Independent 
Non-Executive Director. John has breadth 
and depth of experience in the industry, in 
leadership and in finance. There is no doubt 
that John will continue to make a great 
contribution to the Company and steer it in 
the right direction as it enters a new phase 
of return to growth. I would also like to 
thank Ambassador António Monteiro, 
Antony Maris, and Ettore Contini for their 
extensive service and commitment to the 
Company over the years. I wish them all 
the very best for the future.

Financial discipline
Capital discipline and financial stability  
are part of the Company’s DNA and 
continue to underpin the business. Capital 
investment and divestment decisions are 
taken to allocate capital where it will 
provide the best risk-adjusted returns.  
The balance sheet remained strong 
throughout 2019 and the Company had 
solid cash flows and low cash operating 
costs. The Group finished the year with 
$58.5m in cash, after returning $27.4m  
to shareholders through 5.5 pence per  
share final dividend for the 2018 financial 
year and bringing the total return to 
shareholders since 2006 to approximately 
$530m. Overall loss for the year was 
$24.5m (2018: $27.7m profit). We have 
responded quickly to the current 
turbulence in the global economy, which 
has had a significant impact on the oil price. 
In Vietnam, our production continues to 
command a significant premium to Brent 
and our business is profitable at low oil 
prices, while the largely discretionary 
nature of our planned investments in Egypt 
gives us considerable operational flexibility. 

Over the coming weeks and months, we 
will cut discretionary expenditure as 
appropriate to preserve balance sheet 
strength. We maintain our commitment  
to paying the dividend of 2.75 pence per 
share during 2020, as previously 
announced. Given the current uncertainties 
in the global economy, the Board has 
however decided to postpone these 
dividend payments until the macro 
environment becomes clearer.

Outlook – A wealth of organic 
opportunities, a clear strategy and outlook
Our strategic ambition is to deliver value 
for all our stakeholders through the 
responsible management of our current 
portfolio and the careful selection of 
growth opportunities in Asia and MENA. 
Such opportunities include those with 
near-term low-cost onshore development 
and, where appropriate, exploration assets 
with transformative potential.

Our principal strategy is the delivery of 
sustainable long-term growth whilst 
maintaining traditional commitment to 
shareholder returns through financial 
discipline. We have noted the recent 
pressure on share prices across the sector, 
our own included, and it is a source of 
frustration, given all the progress made by 
the Company this year. The Board and 
management team are not complacent 
about the situation. We are confident that our 
continued focus on sustainable long-term 
growth complemented by dividends as part 
of overall shareholder returns will continue  
to deliver value to our shareholders.

In Egypt, we have high quality oil 
production operations, development  
and exploration assets, and significant 
opportunities to build scale. Our 
contractual position offers significant 
flexibility and committed expenditure is low.

We have valuable established assets in 
Vietnam, with production from two fields 
(TGT & CNV) and further potential for 
growth from two additional exploration 
blocks (Blocks 125 & 126).

We further diversified our portfolio with 
eight licences offshore in Israel with the 
potential for gas with very little committed 
capital. We will also continue to assess  
M&A opportunities. 

Sustainability is at the heart of everything 
we do. This applies equally to our financial 
discipline and commitment to a sustainable 
dividend, and to our approach to achieving 
high standards under our Environmental, 
Social and Governance policies and 
programmes. 

The recent outbreak of the COVID-19 virus, 
which started in China and is now spreading 
throughout the rest of the world, is impacting 
on the global economy. The forecast of a 
sustained period of low economic growth is 
affecting energy demand, which in turn is 
reflected in downward pressure on the oil 
price. In addition, the recent geopolitics have 
put further downward pressure on the oil 
price resulting in a significant oil price drop. 
The oil price is one of the factors which drive 
our revenues and overall profitability and, in 
the event that the spread of the virus is not 
contained and the geopolitical situation does 
not improve, there may be an impact on our 
results for the current year and beyond.

In addition, the spread of the virus has the 
potential to affect our operations in both 
Vietnam and Egypt. The Pharos Board is 
closely monitoring developments to ensure 
that all World Health Organization, Public 
Health England and all relevant in-country 
advice is taken to protect employees, 
contractors and stakeholders.

Pharos Energy is guided by a Board with 
diverse experience, knowledge, skills and 
backgrounds. I leave you in very capable 
hands. 

I would also like to thank all of our 
employees and contractors, ably led by  
the Executive team, for their continued 
hard work and commitment. At each 
engagement across the Group, the  
Board and I have been impressed by the 
responsibility and enthusiasm amongst our 
staff as we continue to build a business 
with a return to growth.

Rui de Sousa
Chair

>  Read more
  Non-IFRS measures on page 156

5.Pharos Energy 5922 AR Chair-Welcome_20-04-08.indd   13

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCE REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONMARKET OVERVIEW

Market overview

Brent oil prices averaged $64/bbl in 2019, a 
decrease of 11% over 2018. The Organization of  
the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) and its 
partners (predominantly led by Russia) continued 
2019 with their policy to restrict oil supply, hoping 
to stabilise the market and prop up oil prices.

BRENT OIL PRICE 2015-2019 ($/BBL)

2019

2018

2017

2016

2015

64

72

45

55

54

0

20

40

60

80

100

Source: Bloomberg.

GLOBAL CRUDE OIL CONSUMPTION 2011-2020E

d
p
b
m
m

104
102
100
98
96
94
92
90
88

2011

2012

2013

2014

2015

2016

2017

2018

2019

2020E

Source: EIA.

GLOBAL E&P M&A TOTAL DEAL VALUE 2011-2019 ($BN)

2019

2018

2017

2016

2015

2014

2013

2012

2011

124.2

86.7

96.0

78.3

58.1

87.4

111.6

143.5

150.6

0

50

100

150

200

Source: IHS Herold.

14

The period saw the US shale industry 
showing signs of strain as capital budgets 
were reduced for the year ahead and the 
rig count falling since the middle of the 
year. US crude oil supply continues to grow 
but is now growing at a slower pace than 
the past two years.

Economics and political
Global economic growth continued  
to slow down in 2019 with the World Bank 
estimating that global GDP grew by 2.4% 
last year, down from 3.0% in 2018 and  
3.2% in 2017. Importantly for commodities, 
China’s economy, the second largest  
in the world, saw a slowing in 2019 in its 
workforce ages and contract awards. 
Several commentators attributed slowing 
global growth to increased protectionism 
as international trade, the engine of global 
activity, is being halted by raising prices for 
producers and consumers, fuelling 
uncertainty, disrupting activity and 
affecting global growth. 

China’s Central Bank easing of their 
monetary policy continued but one of the 
surprises of 2019 was that the US Federal 
Reserve and the European Central Bank 
also switched from tightening to easing 
their monetary policies. Brexit dominated 
much of the UK and the wider world’s news 
during 2019 with the UK leaving the EU at 
the beginning of 2020. 2019 was a good 
year for financial markets and investors, 
with global equities up 27% over the course 
of the year. All major asset classes ended 
2019 up on the year and risk assets were 
clear outperformers.

6.Pharos Energy 5922 AR Market-Overview_20-04-08.indd   14

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019Oil price
The Brent oil price averaged $64 per  
barrel in 2019 and traded mostly within a  
$60-65 per barrel price range with some 
exceptions in the first half of the period 
where Brent traded as much as $74 per 
barrel. A year ago concerns over slowing 
global growth had pushed oil prices to their 
lowest level since the summer of 2017 and 
spurred OPEC production cuts.

Despite a significant pull back in production 
from OPEC members as well as non-OPEC 
partners, led by Russia, oil prices failed to 
move significantly as US supply remained 
buoyant and global demand waned under 
continuing concerns about flagging 
economic growth. More recently, significant 
disruption to the global economy including 
the demand for oil has been caused by the 
outbreak of the Coronavirus COVID-19, which 
has had a widespread effect across China as 
well as other parts of the world. The forecast 
of a sustained period of low economic 
growth is affecting energy demand, which in 
turn is reflected in downward pressure on the 
oil price. In addition, the recent geopolitics 
have put further downward pressure on the 
oil price resulting in a significant oil price 
drop. We have responded quickly to the 
current turbulence in the global economy, 
which has had a significant impact on the oil 
price. In Vietnam, our production continues to 
command a significant premium to Brent and 
our business is profitable at low oil prices, 
while the largely discretionary nature of our 
planned investments in Egypt gives us 
considerable operational flexibility. Over the 
coming weeks and months, we will cut 

discretionary expenditure as appropriate to 
preserve balance sheet strength. 

Exchange after marketing the float almost 
exclusively to investors in the Middle East. 

Pharos has adopted strategic principles, and 
put policies and procedures in place aimed at 
protecting its business, and “future-proofing” 
it against the potential impact of short-term 
volatility in prices. Pharos’ strategy to mitigate 
this principal risk is set out on pages 46 to 53 
in our discussion on principal risks. Pharos 
regularly evaluates whether the benefit of 
hedging of its oil production is in the best 
interest of shareholders by considering the 
balance between protecting the Group in low 
oil price scenarios against the opportunity 
cost of being unhedged. In addition, Pharos 
continues to manage its overall portfolio to 
ensure a low break-even oil price, regardless 
of actual oil prices. In terms of portfolio 
discipline, Pharos undertakes regular 
assessment of its assets and seeks to 
dispose of those that do not meet our 
commercial viability criteria. Our strong ethos 
of capital discipline ensures that cost 
efficiencies are maintained, even in higher oil 
price environments. Pharos ensures all 
operational decisions – including new 
country entry, production optimisation and 
acquisitions and divestments – are reviewed 
through the lens of full-cycle project 
economics in a range of oil price scenarios.

E&P Merger & Acquisition activities
The Global E&P sector saw an increase in 
M&A value by 70% from $86.7bn in 2018 to 
$124.2bn in 2019. The most high profile 
transaction was the IPO of Saudi Aramco 
which raised over $25bn as it listed just 1.5% 
of the Company on the local Tadawul Stock 

Pharos completed its acquisition of the 
Egyptian asset in the period, repositioning 
the Group for further growth not only in 
Egypt, but also in the wider MENA region.

Climate change regulation
Climate change regulation and wider ESG 
concerns were at the forefront of thinking 
and strategy for not just oil and gas 
companies but the wider global economy 
in 2019. Investors are looking more  
closely at operational indicators to better 
understand company performance in 
reducing emissions. In response, oil and gas 
companies in particular have had to put the 
management and disclosure of indicators 
at the centre of their ESG strategies.1 

Pharos has continued to review its emissions 
with the objective of reducing them. We seek 
to be transparent in our emissions 
performance reporting and in 2019 we 
continued to report our emissions and 
disclose them in accordance with UK industry 
requirements and standards. We participated 
in the CDP Climate Change Questionnaire 
and we set an objective to continue to work 
to improve GHG emissions management by 
identifying realistic initiatives for emissions 
reduction. The period saw Pharos support 
the implementation of the Task Force on 
Climate-related Financial Disclosures, making 
Pharos’ efforts in combatting climate change 
measured and committed.

More information on Pharos’ emissions can 
be found in the Corporate Responsibility 
Report on page 56.

1  https://ihsmarkit.com/research-analysis/comparison-of-ghg-emissions-across-oil-gas-companies-infeasible.htm

6.Pharos Energy 5922 AR Market-Overview_20-04-08.indd   15

15

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCE REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONCHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER'S STATEMENT

A stronger 
organisation  

During 2019, Pharos’ focus has been to 
integrate the Egyptian business and 
increase its production, maintain and 
proactively manage the production from the 
Vietnam fields and further strengthen the 
business through pursuit of organic and 
inorganic growth opportunities in order to 
build scale, underpinned by our relentless 
focus on financial discipline. I am pleased 
with the strategic progress that Pharos has 
made in 2019. We have diversified our asset 
base with new oil and gas exploration and 
production interests in Egypt and Israel to 
complement our existing assets in Vietnam. 
We have further strengthened the Board. 
We continue to have an excellent safety 
record in Vietnam and have enhanced our 
ESG initiatives across the business. We leave 
2019 as a refreshed business, confident that 
the initiatives we have taken during the year 
have created an enhanced platform from 
which we can build future growth. 

The strength of our business lies on our  
low cost commitments and operational 
flexibility. Operating a sustainable business 
remains a key focus to Pharos and we 
continue to make ESG enhancements 
across the business including new Board 
appointments, a new Board Committee and 
initiatives to reduce GHG emissions, and 
continued commitment to social 
investment programmes. 

2019 was a year where we changed our 
company name to Pharos Energy to  
reflect a refreshed business with growth 
opportunities in our portfolio. Operating a 
sustainable business remains a key priority 
for Pharos and we continue to make 
enhancements to ESG across the business 
including new Board appointments, 
reduction in GHG emissions in our 
operations and social investments.

16

7.Pharos Energy 5922 AR CEO-Statement_20-04-08.indd   16

08/04/2020   12:37

Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019In these turbulent times of global market uncertainties, 
we remain focused on financial discipline and are now 
taking appropriate measures to preserve shareholder 
value. We are confident that through a combination  
of our low gearing, low-commitments, low oil price 
break-evens for Vietnam and the flexibility offered  
by deferring some of our largely discretionary 
investments in Egypt, the business is well placed to 
weather the challenging macroeconomic conditions 
whilst retaining the growth opportunities. 

Ed Story 
President and Chief Executive Officer

Egypt
The transaction to acquire the Egyptian 
assets completed on 2 April 2019. Following 
completion, work activities began, including 
drilling and waterflood programmes aimed at 
increasing production. In July 2019, a second 
drilling rig was contracted which started 
drilling in mid-July. Production from the El 
Fayum Concession averaged 5,055 barrels 
of oil per day (bopd) from 2 April to 
31 December 2019. The exit rate of 6,007 
bopd achieved at 31 December 2019 was 
short of the guided exit rate of 6,500 bopd 
due to operational delays. However, to 
compensate for these delays, three rigs have 
been running through 1Q 2020. The rigs have 
been drilling a combination of production 
and injection wells in new waterflood areas 
aimed to increase production.

Vietnam 
Vietnam 2019 production averaged 7,081 
boepd net to the Group’s working interest. 
In 2019, activities were focused on 
increasing well productivity by optimising 
gas-lift for key wells, improving operational 
efficiencies and up-time, and significant 
well intervention. In January 2019, the 
TGT-H5-31P well drilled through the main 
reservoir sections and discovered oil in the 
deeper Oligocene section. The well 
continued to produce from the Miocene 
and shallower Oligocene during 2019. 

Drilling activity for the approved 2019 work 
programme of two further firm wells began 
in late 2019. The first of these two wells,  
the TGT-H5-32I injector well, spudded in 
November 2019 and was completed at the 
end of December. In January 2020, the 

28.5mmbbls

EGYPT PROVEN AND  
PROBABLE (2P) RESERVES

23.5mmbbls

EGYPT ESTIMATED  
CONTINGENT (2C) RESOURCES

second well, TGT-H1-15X was spudded.  
This well is targeting not only Miocene  
and Oligocene producing sands but also 
appraising the deeper Oligocene D & E 
sequence play discovered by the TGT-H5 
31P well in January 2019. The well will be 
fracture stimulated before testing to 
optimise flow from the deeper tight 
reservoirs before assessing their potential 
commerciality. The work on the FPSO gas 
compressors, which started in 2019, has 
progressed very well and it is anticipated 
that completion of the upgrade will be 
achieved ahead of the targeted 1H 2020. 
The upgraded compressors will be 
operating at a higher discharge pressure 
and we anticipate some production 
improvement from being able to inject 
deeper into the wells. 

On Blocks 125 & 126, the acquisition of  
7,107 km line of new 2D seismic, gravity  
and magnetic data was completed in May 
2019, safely, on time and within budget. 

Growth opportunities 
Pharos has a wealth of complementary oil 
and gas opportunities in its portfolio within 
Asia and MENA. We plan to utilise this 
platform to support further growth in 
Egypt and in the wider MENA region, both 
organically and through additional mergers 
and acquisitions. In December 2019, Israel 
signed an Egypt Gas Permit, significantly 
increasing the amount of natural gas it 
plans to export to Egypt. In October 2019, 
Pharos, Cairn Energy PLC and Israel’s Ratio 
Oil Exploration were awarded eight 
licences offshore Israel, a region of prolific 
gas discoveries. This complements our 
current portfolio geographically and 
diversifies from our mainly oil producing 
assets. On 24 December 2019, Pharos 
signed the onshore North Beni Suef (NBS) 
Concession in Egypt. The NBS Concession 
is located immediately south of the El 
Fayum Concession.

Finances
Pharos’ balance sheet remained strong 
throughout 2019 and the Group had robust 
revenue of $189.7m representing an 8% 
increase over the prior year (2018: $175.1m), 
lower cash operating costs of $10.45 boe 
(2018: $13.63 boe) and solid cash flows, and 
an overall loss for the year of $24.5m (2018: 
$27.7m profit). The Group finished the year 
with cash balances as at 31 December 2019 
of $58.5m and net debt of $41.5m, after 
funding its operating and capital expenditure 
programmes and returning $27.4m to 
shareholders in its 2018 dividend paid in  
May 2019. 

7.Pharos Energy 5922 AR CEO-Statement_20-04-08.indd   17

17

08/04/2020   12:37

Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCE REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONCHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER'S STATEMENT CONTINUED

Environmental, Social and Governance 
Safety will always be of the highest priority 
within the business. Our joint operations 
have achieved an outstanding record of 
safety in Vietnam, and we will work to 
continue this success in Egypt. Our goal  
is to have a responsible and positive 
presence in the regions in which we 
operate, resulting in value for host 
countries, local communities, employees, 
contractors and shareholders. The JOC’s 
have invested over $1 billion into its oil and 
gas projects located offshore southern 
Vietnam, making Pharos one of the largest 
UK investors in the country. Pharos’ current 
producing interests in the TGT and CNV 
Fields together place Pharos amongst 
Vietnam’s largest oil producers. Pharos’ 
joint operations have achieved an 
outstanding record of safety and have 
contributed to national economic growth 
through local sourcing, employment, 
training and industry upskilling. 

Reduction in GHG emissions across our 
business is important at Pharos. For 
example, in Egypt, at the North Silah Deep 
Site, there has been a 30% reduction in 
flared gas. Another initiative has been the 
installation of associated-gas powered 
electricity generators eliminating 730,000 
litres of diesel use per year and associated 
emissions in Phase One, with further Phase 
Two reductions in progress. 

Our people drive the value from our assets. 
Pharos is guided by experienced and 
committed teams in the UK, Vietnam  
and Egypt and I would like to take this 
opportunity to thank all of our staff for  
their hard work and contributions. 

Another change in 2019 was the 
announcement of a new Chair after Rui de 
Sousa, the current Chair, expressed his 
intention to retire. Rui has been Chair 
during some of our most exciting but also 
some of our most challenging years and I 
would like to thank him for his committed 
service throughout his tenure. Rui has been 
a valued colleague and friend and I wish him 
all the very best for the future. John Martin, 
current Independent Director and Chair of 
the Audit and Risk Committee, will succeed 
Rui. I look forward to continuing to work 
with John as the Company delivers on our 
strategy of sustainable long-term growth. I 
wish John all the best in his new role. I also 
look forward to welcoming and working 
with Geoffrey Green and Lisa Mitchell who 
are joining the Board of Pharos as 
Independent Non-Executive Directors. 

Outlook
Our distinctive and diverse portfolio in  
Asia and MENA supports our strategy of 
delivering long-term, sustainable growth 
and returns. We are focusing on both 
growth and cash flow from our current 
portfolio and potential M&A opportunities.

Our focus is on growth opportunities in 
Asia onshore development and, where 
appropriate, exploration assets with 
transformative potential. 

Despite the macroeconomic challenges, 
there is much to look forward to for 2020 
and beyond:

•  The continuation of a low cost multi-well 
producer and water-injector programme 
to optimise the phasing of the 
development of the discovered oil 
resources in El Fayum, consistent with 
current markets conditions 

•  The continued high value production 

from the TGT and CNV Fields in Vietnam

•  The production performance of the deep 
Oligocene tight oil potential at TGT in 
offshore Vietnam

•  The assessment of a number of low-cost 
and low-risk conventional exploration 
targets and an unconventional resource 
play in El Fayum

18

7.Pharos Energy 5922 AR CEO-Statement_20-04-08.indd   18

08/04/2020   12:37

Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019Our goal is to have  
a responsible and 
positive presence  
in the regions in 
which we operate, 
resulting in value for 
the host countries, 
local communities, 
employees, 
contractors and 
shareholders. 

•  The evaluation of the low-cost oil 

potential of the recently awarded North 
Beni Suef Concession in Egypt, which 
straddles the Western and Eastern 
Deserts. We will seek to defer our 
commitments wherever possible 

•  The low cost data evaluation of possibly 

transformational:
 •    Gas potential of our material acreage 

position in Israel and;

  •    Oil potential in Blocks 125 & 126 in  
the undrilled Phu Khanh Basin  
offshore Vietnam

All of these activities are underpinned by 
our capital discipline, a consistently strong 
and efficient balance sheet, a portfolio of 
assets with a competitive low operating 
cost, steady cash flows, and a highly 
experienced and committed management 
team. Times are challenging but we believe 
we have the assets and the people to 
weather the storm and flourish. 

Ed Story
President and Chief Executive Officer

7.Pharos Energy 5922 AR CEO-Statement_20-04-08.indd   19

19

08/04/2020   12:37

Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCE REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION 
 
CORE STRATEGIC OBJECTIVES

Delivering value  
for our stakeholders

01  Growth 

orientated

02  Focus on 

stakeholders

03  Stewards  
of capital

Identifying and evaluating inorganic  
and organic growth opportunities  
to build scale.
Targeting growth opportunities in our 
current portfolio. Actively managing our 
portfolio through investments and 
divestments. Seeking low-cost, cash-flow 
accretive assets with a focus on production 
and near-term developments, where we can 
create value for shareholders and manage 
safely, to high operational and safety 
standards, using local staff and suppliers.

Dialogue with shareholders, local 
communities, host governments, 
employees, contractors, and others  
in the supply chain.
We continue to consult and have 
engagement through formal and informal 
processes and an open dialogue with  
our stakeholders, considering matters  
that are important to our stakeholders  
and to the successful delivery of our 
corporate objectives.

ACTIVITIES IN 2019

•  Completed acquisition of the 
El Fayum Concession in Egypt

•  Low-cost multi-well producer and 

water-injector programme

•  North Beni Suef Concession in 

Egypt offering low-cost oil potential 
awarded and signed

•  Growth opportunities in Vietnam on 
the TGT Field and Blocks 125 & 126

•  Awarded eight licences offshore 

Israel in second offshore bid round

•  Further Board refreshment and 

increased independence

•  Active engagement by the 

Independent NED workforce 
representative with UK employees

•  Established the ESG Committee to 
oversee and direct Pharos’ work 
across the ESG agenda

•  Open and active dialogue with 

shareholders throughout the year

•  Engagement across our supply 
chain to identify and address  
red-flag areas of concern

A culture of prudent financial  
management, capital allocation  
and capital return. 
Capital discipline focuses on controlling and 
managing costs. Capital allocation decisions 
are taken to make investments where they 
will provide risk-adjusted full-cycle returns.  
It is this approach that has allowed us to 
return significant amounts of capital to 
shareholders. We have looked to add  
another strand to the story – capital  
growth – to underpin the sustainability of 
dividends over the longer term.

•  Disciplined capital investment and 
allocation. Flexibility on capital 
allocation due to low commitments, 
development through drilling with 
facilities already in place 

•  Revenue stability through active 
hedging programme - 27% of 
production hedged in 2019, 
providing continuity to underpin 
capital programmes and preserve 
upside exposure

•  Modest gearing

20

8.Pharos Energy 5922 AR Strategy-Key-Metrics_20-04-08.indd   20

08/04/2020   12:40

Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019Our strategy is to deliver value through both growth and an annual 
dividend. Sustainability is at the heart of everything we do; in our  
finance discipline and commitment to a sustainable dividend; and  
in our commitment to building on our ESG policies and programmes  
to deliver continuous improvements across the business.

PRIORITIES IN 2020

RISKS

MITIGATION

•  Expansion of waterflood 

•  Lack of growth due to 

•  Targeted M&A opportunity assessment (scale & materiality)

programme in the El Fayum 
Concession to maintain and 
increase production

•  Appraisal of the deep Oligocene 

tight oil potential at TGT 
offshore Vietnam

•  Continued evaluation of M&A 
opportunities against our 
strategic, operational and 
financial criteria

insufficient funds to meet full 
scope work programmes

•  Inability to complete further 

acquisitions in line with 
growth strategy

•  Volatility in production  

levels – sub-optimal well 
performance

•  Regular review of funding options

•  Proactive dialogue with banks and other providers of capital

•  Quality and number of advisers

•  Intense opportunity screening

•  De-risk best prospects/drill best prospects

•  Improve reservoir models

•  Progress on implementing  

•  HSES reputational and 

•  Promote a positive health and safety culture

Task Force on Climate-related 
Financial Disclosures (TCFD) 
recommendations

•  Continued workforce and 
stakeholder engagement, 
building on work done in 2019

operational risk

•  Climate change – transitional 

and physical risks

•  Human resource risk

•  Political and regional risks

•  Emergency preparedness

•  Embed climate change scenarios and evaluate “strategic fit”  

of climate change decisions on key business operations

•  On-going succession planning

•  Comply with all legislative/regulatory frameworks and focus on 

•  Regular staff training and 

•  Business conduct and 

a goal based approach focused on improving safety

development

bribery

•  Partner alignment risk

•  Adhering to our Code of Business Ethics

•  Annual training and compliance certifications by all associated 

persons/whistleblowing facility in place 

•  Active participation in JOC management 

•  Engage directly with the relevant authorities on a regular basis

•  Continue to actively manage 

•  Commodity price risk

•  Oil commodity hedging

capital allocation and 
investments 

•  Maintain financial strength 

through managing capital to 
provide risk adjusted full  
cycle returns

•  Commitment to sustainable 
dividends; an integral part of 
approach to cost control

•  Gearing to remain modest

•  Financial discipline and 
governance; insufficient 
funds to finance both growth 
plans and maintain dividends

•  Close monitoring of business activities, financial position,  

cash flows

•  Control over procurement costs/effective management  

of supply chains

•  Capital discipline with focus on controlling and managing costs

•  Stress test scenarios and sensitivities to ensure a level of 

robustness to downside price scenarios

•  Discretionary spend actively managed

8.Pharos Energy 5922 AR Strategy-Key-Metrics_20-04-08.indd   21

Links to Risk Report (See page 46)

2121

08/04/2020   12:40

Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCE REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONBUSINESS MODEL

Our business model is  
to build for the future

VALUE INPUTS 

Our people

•  Extensive industry experience

•  Technical expertise

•  Commercial acumen

•  Relationship-driven 

Our assets

•   Mix of complementary assets

•  Mature, short payback in Vietnam

•  Low-cost onshore drilling in Egypt 

Our capital

•  Low operating cost

•  Financial prudence

•  Modest gearing target

•  Strict allocation process

Assess

Invest

Develop
& produce

22

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019We are building a business focused on generating sustainable returns. 
We look to grow Pharos through responsible management of its 
current portfolio and the careful selection of new opportunities, 
particularly those with near-term low-cost development and, where 
appropriate, exploration assets with transformative potential within 
Asia and MENA.

We assess opportunities which offer a superior  
risk-weighted return. Our experienced management 
team identify established high margin, low-risk 
producing assets enabling geographical asset 
diversification and increase in exploration acreage 
growth leading to value growth.

VALUE OUTPUTS

Growth opportunities

•  Existing discovered resources

•  New blocks in Egypt and Israel

•  Conventional and unconventional + exploration potential

Our investment programme will continue to  
be allocated over our asset base in a disciplined 
manner to deliver sustainable returns for our 
stakeholders. We maintain a culture of prudent financial 
management, capital allocation, and capital returns.

Stakeholders

•  Net Asset Value (NAV) growth and share price

•  Dividend payments

•  Local capability

•  In-country economic contribution and social investment

•  Employment and training

Our production increases through development of 
existing discovered resources. Maximising margins 
through optimising production and low operating 
costs. Responsible operations, operating safely  
at all times.

Growth production 
metrics

•  Responsible and safe operations

•  Low cost per barrel

•  Development of discovered Egyptian resources

•  Continued development of Vietnam assets

8.Pharos Energy 5922 AR Strategy-Key-Metrics_20-04-08.indd   23

2323

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCE REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONKEY METRICS

Reporting  
on our 
performance

The financial and non-financial metrics facilitate 
better management of long-term performance 
and delivering on our sustainable responsible 
business plans. They are kept under periodic 
review and regularly tested for relevance 
against our strategies and policies.

>  Read more
  Non-IFRS measures on page 156

Financial measures

LOW CASH OPERATING COST 
$/BOE

10.45

2019
2018
2017

10.45

13.63
13.73

Description
Low operating expenditure helps deliver high margin 
production revenues. The cost of producing a single 
barrel of oil is influenced by industry costs, inflation, 
fixed costs and production output.

Objective
To be profitable at lower oil prices.

Performance
Pharos achieved an operating cost of $10.45/boe 
in 2019, a large improvement over 2018 mainly as a 
result of improved terms of the extended FPSO and 
bareboat charter contracts in Vietnam.

Outlook
The Company has a low operating cost base which 
we plan to maintain in 2020.

Links to strategy 
•  Deliver value  

through growth

Associated risks
•  Partner alignment risk
•  Political and  
regional risk

Links to Remuneration Report (See page 96)

Links to Remuneration Report (See page 96)

Links to Remuneration Report (See page 96)

CASH, CASH EQUIVALENTS  
AND LIQUID INVESTMENTS $M

RETURNS TO SHAREHOLDERS 

PENCE PER ORDINARY SHARE

SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC INVESTMENT  

EMPLOYEES UNDERTAKEN ANTI-BRIBERY 

AND CORRUPTION TRAINING %

58.5

58.5

2019
2018
2017

240.1

137.7

Description
Pharos has a history of stable finances and a strong 
balance sheet due to the prudent management of 
producing assets.

Objective
Maintain financial strength through a strong cash 
balance, ensuring obligations can be met as they 
become due, invest in the future of the business and 
maintain commitment to return cash to shareholders.

Performance
Pharos has a cash balance of $58.5m whilst also 
returning cash to shareholders and paying a cash 
consideration for the acquisition of the Egyptian asset  
of $136m and $19.1m for the repayment of the  
Merlon RBL.

Outlook
Pharos has a culture of capital discipline, capital 
allocation and capital returns and this remains the 
key focus as we grow the business.

Links to strategy 
•  Deliver value  

through growth

•  Return to shareholders

Associated risks
•  Commodity price risk
•  Financial discipline  
and governance risk

24

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63.4

2019

2018

2017

Description

22.4

25.2

in Egypt and Vietnam.

Objective

Performance

Outlook

circumstances.

Links to strategy 

•  Deliver value  

through growth 

•  Investment growth 

5.5

2019

2018

2017

Description

to shareholders. 

Objective

Performance

increase from 2018. 

Outlook

becomes clearer.

CAPITAL EXPENDITURE  

LOST TIME INJURY FREQUENCY (“LTIF”) 

GROUP NET PRODUCTION  

CASH $M (includes abandonment funding)

PER MILLION MAN-HOURS WORKED

BOEPD

63.4

0

2019

2018

2017

0

0

0

Description

is a priority.

Objective

12,136

12,136

7,274

8,276

2019

2018

2017

Description

Objective

Performance

Outlook

Investment in the asset base required to maintain 

The Group is committed to operating safely and 

Production revenues generate cash flows which are 

and grow the business and directed to the assets 

responsibly at all times. Having a positive impact on 

re-invested in the portfolio of assets, new business 

the wellbeing of our employees, our contractors 

opportunities, and in returns to shareholders.

and the local communities in which we operate  

Allocate capital to achieve high and feasible returns.

Optimise production from Pharos asset base.

The 2019 cash capital expenditure was much higher 

than 2018 due to the ramp up of activity; the 

Performance

acquisition of seismic data on Blocks 125 & 126 in 

Zero LTIF in the year. 

Vietnam, the commencement of the TGT drilling 

programme, and continuous drilling activity in Egypt. 

Outlook

Pharos’ key safety target is zero LTIF.

Cash capital expenditure budget for 2020 is  

driving continuous improvement year-on-year and 

In light of the new global macroeconomic 

under review in light of the new macroeconomic 

look to replicate this in Egypt.

circumstances, the scale of our discretionary work 

programme for the rest of the year is under review, 

Continue to work with the joint operating companies 

TGT which reached target depth end Feb 2020, and 

to maintain the high safety standards with the aim of 

a three rig work prorgamme in Egypt to 1Q 2020. 

2020 work programme includes the TGT-15X well on 

Vietnam production 7,081 boepd net. Egypt 

production 5,055 bopd (2 April–31 Dec 2019).

Associated risks

Links to strategy 

Associated risks

•  Commodity price risk

•  Focus on 

•  Partner alignment risk 

stakeholders 

•  HSES and social risk

•  Partner alignment risk

Links to strategy 

•  Deliver value  

through growth 

Associated risks

•  Reserve risk

•  Sub-optimal capital 

allocation risks

•  Commodity price risk

$

2019

2018

2017

545,379

100

2019

2018

2017

545,379

509,408

501,582

100

100

100

5.5

5.25

5.0

Since 2006 Pharos has paid a regular dividend 

A training levy of $150,000 for each joint operating 

Our Anti-Bribery and Corruption (“ABC”) 

Description

Description

Sustainable cash returns to shareholders.

Pharos’ business model continues to deliver cash 

returns to shareholders and during the year we paid 

a  dividend of 5.5 pence per Ordinary Share, an 

Objective

company goes into a fund which is ringfenced to 

programme is designed to prevent corruption and 

support the development of future talent in Vietnam 

ensure systems are in place to detect, remediate 

in the industry. A further $245,379 was invested in 

and learn from any potential violations. All personnel 

community and charitable investments through the 

are required to complete annual ABC training.

HLHVJOC Charitable Donation Programme.

Continue to support local capability building and 

social investments in Vietnam and Egypt.

self-declaration statement.

Objective

All personnel to complete the annual ABC 

programme including training, testing and 

An annual dividend is a key aspect of the Company’s 

capital discipline and investment thesis. Given the 

current uncertainties in the global economy, the 

Board has however decided to postpone these 

Outlook

Performance

Performance

In 2019, the HLHVJOC Charitable Donation 

100% of personnel completed the ABC training.

Programme invested in 12 community and charitable 

partnerships and investment projects in Vietnam. 

Outlook

Maintain 100% completion rate for the ABC training. 

Comply with new legislations and industry best 

dividend payments until the macro environment 

Build on previous work, and continuously assess and 

practices and ensure the training programmes are 

review where the most valuable contribution to 

up-to-date. 

long-term social projects, both at the local level and 

more widely, can be made.

Links to strategy 

Associated risks 

Links to strategy 

Associated risks

Links to strategy 

Associated risks

•   Return to shareholders

•   Commodity price risk

•  Climate change risk

•  Sub-optimal capital 

allocation risks

•  Deliver value  

through growth

•  Commodity price risk

•  Deliver value  

•  Financial discipline  

through growth 

•  Partner alignment risk 

•  Business conduct and 

•  Return to shareholders

and governance risk

•   Investment growth

bribery

•  Business conduct and 

bribery

Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 201910.45

2019

2018

2017

Description

10.45

13.63

13.73

Low operating expenditure helps deliver high margin 

production revenues. The cost of producing a single 

barrel of oil is influenced by industry costs, inflation, 

fixed costs and production output.

Objective

To be profitable at lower oil prices.

Performance

Pharos achieved an operating cost of $10.45/boe 

in 2019, a large improvement over 2018 mainly as a 

result of improved terms of the extended FPSO and 

bareboat charter contracts in Vietnam.

Outlook

The Company has a low operating cost base which 

we plan to maintain in 2020.

Links to strategy 

Associated risks

•  Deliver value  

through growth

•  Partner alignment risk

•  Political and  

regional risk

58.5

58.5

2019

2018

2017

Description

producing assets.

Objective

240.1

137.7

Pharos has a history of stable finances and a strong 

balance sheet due to the prudent management of 

Maintain financial strength through a strong cash 

balance, ensuring obligations can be met as they 

become due, invest in the future of the business and 

maintain commitment to return cash to shareholders.

Performance

Pharos has a cash balance of $58.5m whilst also 

returning cash to shareholders and paying a cash 

consideration for the acquisition of the Egyptian asset  

of $136m and $19.1m for the repayment of the  

Merlon RBL.

Outlook

Pharos has a culture of capital discipline, capital 

allocation and capital returns and this remains the 

key focus as we grow the business.

Links to strategy 

Associated risks

•  Deliver value  

through growth

•  Commodity price risk

•  Financial discipline  

•  Return to shareholders

and governance risk

Financial measures

Operational measures

LOW CASH OPERATING COST 

$/BOE

CAPITAL EXPENDITURE  
CASH $M (includes abandonment funding)

LOST TIME INJURY FREQUENCY (“LTIF”) 
PER MILLION MAN-HOURS WORKED

GROUP NET PRODUCTION  
BOEPD

63.4

2019
2018
2017

22.4
25.2

63.4

0

2019
2018
2017

0
0
0

12,136

2019
2018
2017

12,136

7,274

8,276

Description
Investment in the asset base required to maintain 
and grow the business and directed to the assets 
in Egypt and Vietnam.

Objective
Allocate capital to achieve high and feasible returns.

Performance
The 2019 cash capital expenditure was much higher 
than 2018 due to the ramp up of activity; the 
acquisition of seismic data on Blocks 125 & 126 in 
Vietnam, the commencement of the TGT drilling 
programme, and continuous drilling activity in Egypt. 

Outlook
Cash capital expenditure budget for 2020 is  
under review in light of the new macroeconomic 
circumstances.

Description
The Group is committed to operating safely and 
responsibly at all times. Having a positive impact on 
the wellbeing of our employees, our contractors 
and the local communities in which we operate  
is a priority.

Objective
Pharos’ key safety target is zero LTIF.

Performance
Zero LTIF in the year. 

Outlook
Continue to work with the joint operating companies 
to maintain the high safety standards with the aim of 
driving continuous improvement year-on-year and 
look to replicate this in Egypt.

Description
Production revenues generate cash flows which are 
re-invested in the portfolio of assets, new business 
opportunities, and in returns to shareholders.

Objective
Optimise production from Pharos asset base.

Performance
Vietnam production 7,081 boepd net. Egypt 
production 5,055 bopd (2 April–31 Dec 2019).

Outlook
2020 work programme includes the TGT-15X well on 
TGT which reached target depth end Feb 2020, and 
a three rig work prorgamme in Egypt to 1Q 2020. 
In light of the new global macroeconomic 
circumstances, the scale of our discretionary work 
programme for the rest of the year is under review, 

Links to strategy 
•  Deliver value  

through growth 
•  Investment growth 

Associated risks
•  Commodity price risk
•  Partner alignment risk 

Links to strategy 
•  Focus on 

stakeholders 

Associated risks
•  HSES and social risk
•  Partner alignment risk

Links to strategy 
•  Deliver value  

through growth 

Associated risks
•  Reserve risk
•  Sub-optimal capital 

allocation risks

•  Commodity price risk

Links to Remuneration Report (See page 96)

Links to Remuneration Report (See page 96)

Links to Remuneration Report (See page 96)

CASH, CASH EQUIVALENTS  

AND LIQUID INVESTMENTS $M

RETURNS TO SHAREHOLDERS 
PENCE PER ORDINARY SHARE

SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC INVESTMENT  
$

EMPLOYEES UNDERTAKEN ANTI-BRIBERY 
AND CORRUPTION TRAINING %

5.5

2019
2018
2017

545,379

5.5
5.25

5.0

2019
2018
2017

545,379

509,408
501,582

100

2019
2018
2017

100
100
100

Description
Since 2006 Pharos has paid a regular dividend 
to shareholders. 

Objective
Sustainable cash returns to shareholders.

Performance
Pharos’ business model continues to deliver cash 
returns to shareholders and during the year we paid 
a  dividend of 5.5 pence per Ordinary Share, an 
increase from 2018. 

Outlook
An annual dividend is a key aspect of the Company’s 
capital discipline and investment thesis. Given the 
current uncertainties in the global economy, the 
Board has however decided to postpone these 
dividend payments until the macro environment 
becomes clearer.

Description
A training levy of $150,000 for each joint operating 
company goes into a fund which is ringfenced to 
support the development of future talent in Vietnam 
in the industry. A further $245,379 was invested in 
community and charitable investments through the 
HLHVJOC Charitable Donation Programme.

Objective
Continue to support local capability building and 
social investments in Vietnam and Egypt.

Performance
In 2019, the HLHVJOC Charitable Donation 
Programme invested in 12 community and charitable 
partnerships and investment projects in Vietnam. 

Outlook
Build on previous work, and continuously assess and 
review where the most valuable contribution to 
long-term social projects, both at the local level and 
more widely, can be made.

Description
Our Anti-Bribery and Corruption (“ABC”) 
programme is designed to prevent corruption and 
ensure systems are in place to detect, remediate 
and learn from any potential violations. All personnel 
are required to complete annual ABC training.

Objective
All personnel to complete the annual ABC 
programme including training, testing and 
self-declaration statement.

Performance
100% of personnel completed the ABC training.

Outlook
Maintain 100% completion rate for the ABC training. 
Comply with new legislations and industry best 
practices and ensure the training programmes are 
up-to-date. 

Links to strategy 
•   Return to shareholders

Associated risks 
•   Commodity price risk
•  Climate change risk
•  Sub-optimal capital 

allocation risks

Links to strategy 
•  Deliver value  

through growth

•  Return to shareholders

Associated risks
•  Commodity price risk
•  Financial discipline  
and governance risk
•  Business conduct and 

bribery

Links to strategy 
•  Deliver value  

through growth 
•   Investment growth

Associated risks
•  Partner alignment risk 
•  Business conduct and 

bribery

8.Pharos Energy 5922 AR Strategy-Key-Metrics_20-04-08.indd   25

25

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCE REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONOPERATIONS REVIEW

Egypt  
continuing  
to evolve

High quality oil 
production operations, 
development and 
exploration assets in 
Egypt, building scale  
and creating significant 
opportunities. 

In Egypt, Pharos holds a 100% working 
interest in the El Fayum Concession in the 
low-cost and highly oil prolific Western 
Desert, c.80km south west of Cairo and in 
proximity to local energy infrastructure. It  
is operated by Petrosilah, a 50/50 joint 
venture (JV) between Pharos and Egyptian 
General Petroleum Corporation (EGPC). 
The concession has 10 oil fields, the largest 
three of which form the Greater Silah Area.

The acquisition of the Egyptian assets was 
completed on 2 April 2019.

The El Fayum Concession has 1,564km2  
of exploration acreage, of which c.70% is 
covered by existing 3D seismic, with 
multiple identified exploration prospects 
and leads set in proven petroleum systems, 
as well as a large under explored area in  
the northern portion of the Concession  
and deep untested pre-Kharita potential  
in the south.

LOCATION 

•  Surrounded by analogue productive 

fields and existing infrastructure

•   Gindi Basin geologic province, in one of 

Egypt’s most prolific oil-producing 
regions close to Qarun, Wadi Rayan,  
East Beni Suef Fields

TERMS 

•  Earliest development licence expiry: 
2029 with two additional five-year 
extensions possible

•  Operatorship: carried out by the 

Petrosilah Operating Company (50/50 
JV with EGPC)

AREA 

•  Total area: 6,880km2

•   Fayum Exploration: 1,564km2/ 

Development: 256km2

•  North Beni Suef: 5,060km2

INFRASTRUCTURE

•  Crude trucked ~200km to Suez 

domestic refinery

•   Export potential via Dashour (~70 km)  

or Sidi Kerir (~270 km, trucked)

26

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019Average Egypt production (2 April to 31 December 2019)

5,055 bopd 
10Oil fields

9.Pharos Energy 5922 AR Operations-Review_20-04-08.indd   27

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCE REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONOPERATIONS REVIEW CONTINUED

Egypt

An evolving energy hub for  
the Eastern Mediterranean

Pharos Energy is positioned to play a significant  
role in the regional growth

Located in highly productive 
Western Desert of Egypt

1  El Fayum 

Continued industry consolidation in Egypt with 
existing organic growth opportunities

CAIRO

El Fayum Concession

North Beni Suef Concession

EGYPT

1  El Fayum (D&P)

2  North Beni Suef (E)

The El Fayum Concession is located  
in the low-cost and highly prolific 
Western Desert, about 80km south 
west of Cairo and close to local 
energy infrastructure. 

The North Beni Suef (NBS)
Concession is located south of  
the El Fayum Concession. Pharos 
entered into the NBS Concession 
Agreement on 24 December 2019. 

+ See page 28

+ See page 30

100%Working interest; operated by Petrosilah JOC
28.5Mmbbl of 2P Reserves
23.5Mmbbl of 2C Resources

Egypt production
Production from the El Fayum Concession 
averaged 5,055 barrels of oil per day (bopd) 
from 2 April to 31 December 2019. The exit 
rate of 6,007 bopd achieved at 31 December 
2019 was short of the guided exit rate of 
6,500 bopd due to operational delays. 

Egypt production guidance for 2020 (6,500 
to 7,500 bopd) as announced on 8 January 
2020 is suspended whilst the scale of our 
discretionary work programme for the rest 
of the year is under review.

Egypt development and operations
Other than four outstanding exploration 
commitment wells, the forward drilling 
programme is discretionary providing the 
company with significant operational 
flexibility. 

Since completion of the acquisition, ten 
development wells and three injector wells 
have been drilled within the Concession 
area. This drilling programme has been 
focused on increasing production from the 
core areas of the Greater Silah Area and on 
further appraisal and development of the 
North East Tersa satellite field. 

At the time of completion in April 2019,  
one drilling rig was operating on the 
concession. A second drilling rig, which  

28

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019CAIRO

Area E

EGYPT

El Fayum Concession

had been cold stacked, commenced 
operations in mid-July. In August, the same 
rig underwent a 45-day maintenance 
programme, after which its performance 
improved. A third drilling rig was contracted 
and commenced operations in December 
2019. All three drilling rigs will be operating 
through 1Q 2020 to compensate for the 
earlier operational delays, after which the 
drilling programme will revert to two rigs. 

Operations have focused on optimising 
existing waterflood areas, improving 
artificial lift performance, and restoring 
production from inactive wells. The 
workover rig count was increased from  
two to three in October to accelerate  
new well completions and perform well 
maintenance activities. 

Reprocessing of the 3D seismic data 
across El Fayum started in August, to 
improve resolution for future in-fill wells, 
and to optimise the location of new wells  
in the waterflood areas. The proposed new 
3D seismic acquisition in the northern, 
under-explored parts of El Fayum awaits 
military approval and clearance of 
unexploded ordinance. 

Exploration drilling activity is currently on 
hold while we focus on development, 
production and cash flow.

2020 work programme
The forward plan calls for a combination of 
production and injection wells to augment 
waterflood deployment and increase 
production. Subsurface static and dynamic 
models are being updated for the results of 
the 2019 drilling campaign. This will allow 
further optimisation of waterflood patterns 
and well spacing which will in turn improve 
sweep efficiency and increase well 
deliverability. 

The discretionary drilling programme 
provides the company with flexibility as to 
the number of rigs contracted but each rig 
is expected to drill on average one well per 
month.

El Fayum exploration
Over 100m of core in Abu Roash F (AR F) 
section was acquired in the Al Medina 1X 
exploration well drilled in January 2019. 
Special core analysis has confirmed high 
total organic content and subsequent 
geochemical analyses have confirmed that 
the AR F at the depth in the well has just 
entered the generative oil window at this 
location. Additional wells to the north, where 
the section deepens and should be optimal 
for expulsion, will be required to test the 
commercial feasibility of this unconventional 
resource play in due course.

Full Field Development Plan provides 
detailed runway to growth
Longer-term strategy
•  Grid drilling with optimized  

well spacing

•  Expand water floods across the fields

•  Add new reserves and open new 

production hubs

•  Focus on field economics/ 

high-return investment

 2P reserves mmbls 
 2C resources mmbls

28.5 

23.5

Egypt outlook
•  2020 production guidance of 

6,500-7,500 bopd is suspended 
whilst the scale of our discretionary 
work programme for the rest of the 
year is under review

•  Phase Two programme of 

associated gas powered electrical 
generators is planned to further 
reduce GHG emissions

•  Implementation of studies to further 

reduce GHG emissions such as 
investigating satellite wellsite(s) solar 
power sources

•  Continue in-fill drilling across the 

fields in the Greater Silah area and 
selective drilling in satellite fields

•  Proceed with waterflood deployment

•  Continue defining appraisal targets/
mature exploration targets in areas 
covered by existing 3D seismic in El 
Fayum and newly acquired North 
Beni Suef Concession

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCE REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION 
 
OPERATIONS REVIEW CONTINUED

Egypt

2  North Beni Suef

Located south of the El Fayum 
Concession in the low-cost, 
highly prolific Western Desert.

Existing data base

Acreage 

5,060km2
1,788km2
8Wells

3D seismic 

CAIRO

EGYPT

North Beni Suef block

Egypt – North Beni Suef 
On 24 December 2019, Pharos signed the 
North Beni Suef (NBS) Concession 
Agreement which was awarded in February 
2019 during the EGPC 2018 International 
Bid Round. The NBS Concession is located 
onshore immediately south of the El Fayum 
Concession. Pharos is the operator with 
100% working interest. 

New business 
In addition to the acquisition of the El 
Fayum Concession, which is a high quality 
oil concession with significant development 
upside and exploration optionality, Pharos 
further diversified its portfolio in 2019 
through acquiring further exploration 
acreage in Egypt and in Israel.

Pharos continues to evaluate M&A 
opportunities by reference to our strategic, 
financial and operational criteria and to only 
pursue transactions if they are determined 
by the Board to be in the best interest of 
shareholders. The Company continues to 
evaluate a number of opportunities in 
accordance with these criteria.

30

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019Israel ready for  
initial phase 

A potential major source of future gas  
from Israel to Egypt

8 licences awarded 

Effective from 28 October 2019

With new partners, Pharos submitted a successful bid for two 
zones offshore Israel in the 2019 offshore bid round, resulting  
in the award of eight licences across the two zones.

39

40

Zone A

45

46

47

48

Zone C

52

53

WEST
BA NK

TE L AVIV

On 28 October 2019, Pharos, together with 
Cairn Energy PLC and Israel’s Ratio Oil 
Exploration signed eight offshore licences 
that were awarded during the second 
offshore bid round in Israel. Each party has 
an equal working interest and Cairn is the 
designated operator. 

In 2020, Pharos and its partners are 
intending to commence reprocessing of all 
the existing 3D seismic vintages across the 
eight licences to provide a uniform data set.

ISRA EL

KEY FISCAL TERMS 

GAZ A

EGYPT

1  Zone A & Zone C (E)

Two contiguous zones, A & C, each 
containing four licences (eight in total). 
The licences will have an initial term of 
three years with each having two-year 
extension options. There will be a 
minimum work programme in the initial 

phases which include re-evaluation of 
the potential of the acreage by 
integrating all available data, and 
reprocessing of 3D seismic data over 
high-graded prospects in each zone. 

Concession with a royalty and profit tax:

•  Royalty is 12.5%

•  CIT is 23%

•   Capex, opex and super profits tax  

can be used to offset profits

•   First phase commitments  
are seismic studies only

8Licences
33.33%

Working interest

9.Pharos Energy 5922 AR Operations-Review_20-04-08.indd   31

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Vietnam  
finding  
further  
potential

We have established  
and valuable assets in 
Vietnam. Production  
is from two fields  
(TGT & CNV) and further 
potential for growth 
from two additional 
exploration blocks  
(Blocks 125 & 126).

Blocks 16-1 and 9-2, which contain the TGT 
and CNV fields respectively, are located in 
shallow water in the hydrocarbon-rich Cuu 
Long Basin, near the Bach Ho Field, the 
largest field in the region with production 
already in excess of one billion barrels of oil 
equivalent. The Blocks are operated 
through non-profit joint operating 
companies in which each partner holds an 
interest equivalent to its share in the 
respective Petroleum Contract. The Group 
holds a 30.5% working interest in Block 16-1 
and a 25% working interest in Block 9-2 and 
its partners in both blocks are PetroVietnam 
Exploration and Production, a subsidiary of 
the national oil company of Vietnam and 
PTTEP, the national oil company of Thailand.

Vietnam production 
Production in 2019 from the TGT and CNV 
fields net to the Group’s working interest 
average was 7,081 boepd (2018: 7,274 
boepd). This is in line with production 
guidance of 6,500-7,500 boepd. 

TGT 2019 production averaged 17,847 
boepd gross and 5,382 boepd net to 
Pharos (2018: 18,857 boepd gross and 
5,686 boepd net). CNV production 
averaged 6,793 boepd gross and 1,699 
boepd net to Pharos (2018: 6,352 boepd 
gross and 1,588 boepd net).

The Group’s Vietnam production guidance 
for 2020 of 5,500-6,500 boepd net, as 
announced on 8 January 2020, remains 
unchanged. Actual production at the higher 
end of this range will depend on several 
operational factors, including the 
performance of the two new wells in TGT, 
the results of the planned well intervention 
programme and general field reservoir 
performance.

Production by field

FY 2019

FY 2018

TGT production

Oil 

Gas1 

CNV production

Oil 

Gas1 

Total production

Oil 

Gas1 

Figures in boepd.

5,382

5,034

348

1,699

1,106

593

7,081

6,140

941

5,686

5,346

340

1,588

1,052

536

7,274

6,398

876

1  Assumes oil equivalent conversion factor of 6,000 
standard cubic feet per barrel of oil equivalent.

32

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 201923Years active in  

Vietnam since 1997

$1 billion

Over $1 billion invested by the JOC in  
oil and gas projects located offshore 
Vietnam, making Pharos one of the 
largest British investors in the country

Zero

Lost Time Injury (LTI)  
since incorporation

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCE REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONOPERATIONS REVIEW CONTINUED

Vietnam

A valued asset with future  
growth opportunities

Supportive relationships developed  
at the highest levels of government

Organic growth opportunities

QUY NHON

NHA TRANG

VIETNAM

Block 125

Block 126

Block 16-1 TGT Field

Block 9-2 CNV Field

HO CHI MINH CITY

1  Block 9-2 CNV Field (D&P)

The CNV Field is located in  
Block 9-2, offshore Vietnam, in the 
shallow water Cuu Long Basin. In 
contrast to the geology of TGT, the  
CNV Field reservoir is fractured  
granitic Basement.

+ See page 35

2  Block 16-1 TGT Field (D&P)

The TGT Field is located in Block 16-1, 
offshore Vietnam in the shallow water 
Cuu Long Basin.

+ See page 36

3  Blocks 125 & 126 (E)

Blocks 125 & 126 are located in moderate 
to deep waters in the Phu Khanh Basin, 
north east of the Cuu Long Basin.

+ See page 37

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 20191  Block 9-2 CNV Field

HO CHI MINH CITY

VIETNAM

The CNV Field is located in  
Block 9-2, offshore Vietnam,  
in the shallow water Cuu  
Long Basin.

25%

Working interest; operated by HVJOC

1,699 boepd net

2019 production averaged 6,793 boepd gross  
and 1,699 boepd net to Pharos 

Block 9-2 CNV Field

2019 activity
In October 2019, temporary conversion  
of the water injection pipeline to gas lift 
was completed and the JOC is now 
focussed on improving CNV-5P-ST2 well 
performance. Later in 2020, conversion of 
the pipeline will be made permanent 
allowing increased gas lift volumes. At  
that point it will be possible to flow test  
the CNV 6PST1. 

No further drilling activities are currently 
planned on the CNV Field.

The CNV Field is located in the western 
part of Block 9-2, offshore southern 
Vietnam and is operated by HVJOC.  
The CNV Field reservoir is fractured 
granitic basement, which produces a 
volatile oil with a high gas to oil ratio. 
Exploitation is dependent on the fracture 
interconnectivity to deplete the reservoir 
efficiently. Accordingly, traditional reservoir 
properties and Stock Tank Oil Initially In 
Place (STOIIP) calculations are not 
straightforward, but managed properly  
the fractured basement reservoir declines 
at a much slower rate than is commonly 
seen in clastic reservoirs. 

Hydrocarbons produced from CNV are 
transported via subsea pipeline to the Bach 
Ho Central Processing Platform (BHCPP), 
where wet gas is separated from oil and 
transported via pipeline to an onshore gas 
facility for further distribution. The crude oil 
is stored on a floating, storage and 
offloading FPSO vessel prior to sale, and 
realises a significant premium to Brent.

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Vietnam

2  Block 16-1 TGT Field

HO CHI MINH CITY

VIETNAM

Located in Block 16-1, offshore 
Vietnam, in the shallow water  
Cuu Long Basin.

30.5%

Working interest; operated by HLJOC

5,382 boepd net

2019 production averaged 17,847 boepd gross  
and 5,382 boepd net to Pharos  

Block 16-1 TGT Field

TGT 2019 production averaged 17,847 
boepd gross and 5,382 boepd net to 
Pharos (2018: 18,857 boepd gross and  
5,686 boepd net).

The TGT field is located in the north eastern 
part of Block 16-1, offshore southern 
Vietnam and is operated by HLJOC.  
The Block 16-1 petroleum contract was 
signed in December 1999, with the first 
commercial discovery made in 2005. TGT is 
a simple structure, with a complex series of 
stacked producing intervals, extending over 
16km and with hydrocarbons located in at 
least five major fault blocks. The producing 
reservoirs comprise a complex series of 
over 80 clastic reservoir intervals of 
Miocene and Oligocene age. Each interval 
requires individual reservoir management to 
optimise field recovery. The TGT field 
continues to be a rewarding investment for 
Pharos Energy, with its attractive fiscal 
terms, low operating costs and an oil quality 
which realises a significant premium to 
Brent. 

The first well head platform, H1-WHP, came 
on stream in August 2011, followed by the 
H4-WHP in July 2012 and the H5-WHP in 
August 2015. Crude oil from TGT is 
transported via subsea pipeline to the 

FPSO, where it is processed, stored and 
exported by tankers to regional oil 
refineries. Gas produced from the field is 
exported by pipeline to the nearby Bach Ho 
facilities for processing and onward 
transportation to shore by pipeline to 
supply the Vietnamese domestic market.

2019 activity
A programme of well intervention activity 
was the prime focus of TGT operations in 
2019. In addition, in January 2019, the 
TGT-H5-31P well was drilled through the 
main reservoir sections and discovered oil 
in the deeper reservoirs of the Oligocene. 
A single DST was conducted and oil flowed 
to surface from the deeper D & E sections 
under controlled conditions. The well 
continues to produce from the shallower 
main reservoirs in the Oligocene and 
Miocene section.

The rig, contracted through PV Drilling, 
executed the approved 2019 work 
programme of two firm and two contingent 
infill wells. The first of the two firm wells, the 
TGT-H5-31I, injector well, spudded in 
November 2019. The well was initially 
completed as an oil producer but will be 
shortly converted to water injection.

The rig then moved to the north to drill the 
TGT-H1-15X well, which is targeting not only 
the Miocene and Oligocene producing 
sands but also appraising the deeper 
Oligocene D & E sequence play discovered 
by the TGT-H5-31P well in January 2019. 
The well spudded on 19 January 2020, 
reached target depth (TD) on 28 February 
2020, and is to be fracced and completed 
as a dual producer. Operations are 
expected to be completed in 2Q 2020. 

The production performance of the 
TGT-H1-15X well deeper section will be an 
important factor in assessing the ultimate 
recovery factor and hence commercial 
potential of this new play for which the 
STOIIP estimate across the entire structure 
is approximately 225 million barrels. 

TGT Compressors and FPSO  
Tie-In Agreement (TIA)
Delivery of the upgraded bundles for the 
Gas Turbine compressors for the Leased 
FPSO was made in December and 
completion of the upgrade has progressed 
well and is anticipated to complete ahead 
of the expected 1H 2020. The upgraded 
compressors will be operating at a higher 
discharge pressure and we anticipate some 
production improvement from being able 
to inject gas deeper into the wells.

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 20193  Blocks 125 & 126

NHA TRANG

VIETNAM

Block 125

Block 126

HO CHI MINH CITY

Negotiations on the TIA between the 
HLJOC and the current counterparty, 
Thang Long Joint Operating Company 
(TLJOC) continue.

Located in moderate to deep 
waters in the Phu Khanh Basin, 
north east of the Cuu Long Basin.

2020 work programme
Operations are focussed on completing 
testing and producing from the TGT-H1-15X 
well.

70%

Operated working interest

An updated Full Field Development Plan 
(FFDP), which includes drilling six TGT 
producer wells in 2021 has been issued to 
all partners. We anticipate approvals from 
partners, and final approvals from 
PetroVietnam and the Vietnamese 
Government in 2Q 2020.

Exploration Blocks 125 & 126 are in moderate 
to deep waters in the under-explored Phu 
Khanh Basin. 

The Phu Khanh is similar in geological style 
to all the productive Tertiary basins across 
South East Asia and a small oil discovery in 
the shallow inboard part of the basin 
confirms that it contains an active petroleum 
system.

The acquisition of 7,107 km of 2D seismic, 
gravity and magnetic data was completed 
on 31 May 2019 on time and within budget. 
Initial interpretation of the seismic confirms 
multiple structural and stratigraphic plays 
across the basin. The forward work plan is to 
acquire a 3D seismic survey (minimum 500 
km²) in 2020-2021 over high-graded 
prospective areas.

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Vietnam outlook 
•  2020 production guidance 5,500 – 6,500 boepd net

•  Proactively manage the existing producing reservoirs 

•  Production performance of the new deeper Oligocene D & E  

sequence play at TGT 

•  2D interpretation and 3D Seismic acquisition over selected areas  

of Blocks 125 & 126 maybe deferred until 2021

•  Approval of the updated TGT FFDP 

HSES 
Safety is the highest priority in our 
business, and we are committed to 
operating safely and responsibly at all 
times and to providing a safe and healthy 
working environment for staff and 
contractors. 

In Vietnam, we continue to work with our 
partners to maintain a high level of safety 
and we are proud of our record of zero 
Lost Time Injury (LTI) frequency rate with 
more than 25 million man-hours since 
inception. In Egypt, the Petrosilah JV 
obtained zero LTI frequency rate with 9.7 
million man-hours since completion of 
the El Fayum acquisition on 2 April 2019. 
The Company is looking at ways it can 
reduce GHG emissions across its 
operations. One such initiative in  
Egypt includes the use of associated 
-gas-powered generators. The gas 
comes from the wells themselves and 
replaces diesel usage at the sites. Phase 
One utilisation of these generators 
started in June 2019. Reductions in GHG 
emissions were achieved through the 
elimination of 730,000 litres of diesel use 
per year and associated emissions. 
There was also a 30% reduction in flared 
gas at the North Silah Deep site. 

A Phase Two associated gas generator 
programme is planned to reduce CO2e 
emissions by a further 2,330 tonnes 
and is currently expected to start in 
May 2020. Satellite wellsite(s) solar 
power sources are also under 
investigation.

We support local capacity building 
during the exploration or development 
phases of a project to ensure a positive 
imprint and legacy. Our licence 
agreements include a degree of local 
content, which commits us to hire 
locally where possible and provide 
training to develop new skills. In 
Vietnam, a training levy of $150,000 for 
each JOC, a total of $300,000 per year, 
is a ring-fenced fund to support the 
development of future Vietnamese 
expertise in the industry. In Egypt, under 
the El Fayum and North  
Beni Suef Concession Agreements, the 
Company commits to a total of 
$200,000, which is split equally 
between the two concessions, for 
development and training of employees.

We understand that our success is reliant 
upon building strong relationships and 
being welcomed as a responsible 
partner in our host communities. We 
invest in social projects for their 
long-term benefit. In 2019, our social 
investment in Vietnam was through the 
HLHVJOC Charitable Donation 
Programme as set out in our licence 
terms to which we contributed $245,379. 
This supported 12 community and 
charitable investment partnerships 
mainly in education and healthcare 
support. In Egypt, we are in the process 
of assessing where we can make the 
most valuable contribution to long-term 
social projects, both at the local level and 
more widely.

Group reserves and  
contingent resources
The Group Reserves Statistics table on 
page 39 summarises our reserves and 
contingent resources based on the 
company’s unitised working interest in 
each field. Gross reserves and contingent 
resources have been independently 
audited by RISC Advisory Pty Ltd (RISC)  
for Vietnam and McDaniel & Associates 
Consultants Ltd. (McDaniel) for Egypt.  
(SEE FIG 1) 

The company’s reserves and resources 
more than doubled as a result of the 
acquisition of the El Fayum asset in Egypt, 
which completed on 2 April 2019.

Vietnam reserves and 
contingent resources
In accordance with the requirements of its 
Reserve Base Lending Facility, the 
company commissioned RISC to provide 
an independent audit of gross (100% field) 
reserves and contingent resources for TGT 
and CNV as of 31 December 2019.  
(SEE FIG 2)

On TGT, 2P reserves were revised higher as a 
result of the inclusion of additional wells in the 
revised Full-Field Development Plan (FFDP). 

TGT contingent resources were revised 
downwards due to a corresponding 
reduction in potential new wells in the  
2C category in the revised FFPD. 

On CNV, the 2P reserves position at 
31 December 2019 was revised slightly 
downwards as one of the wells drilled in  
late 2018 has been cleaning up at slower 
rate than previously anticipated. CNV 
contingent resources have been revised 
upwards because of the inclusion of  
a potential future sidetrack to an  
existing producer. 

Egypt reserves and  
contingent resources 
This is the first time the company has 
reported Egypt reserves following 
completion of the El Fayum acquisition 
on 2 April 2019. McDaniel estimates of 2P 
reserves are higher than previous estimates 
supporting the acquisition as more  
definitive drilling plans have facilitated the 
re-categorisation of some 2C volumes  
to 2P. (SEE FIG 3) 

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019FIG 1. GROUP RESERVES AND CONTINGENT RESOURCES 

Net Working Interest, 
MMBOE 

TGT 

CNV  Vietnam3 

Egypt4  Group 

Oil & Gas 2P Commercial Reserves 1,2 

As of 1 January, 2019 

16.2 

6.8 

23.0 

– 

23.0 

As at acquisition date  
(2 April 2019) 

Production 

Revision 

2P Commercial Reserves 
as of 31 December 2019 

– 

(2.0) 

1.2 

 –

(0.6) 

(0.2) 

– 

21.6 

21.6

(2.6) 

1.0 

(1.4) 

8.3 

(4.0) 

9.3 

15.4 

6.0 

21.4 

28.5 

49.9 

FIG 4. GROUP’S WORKING INTEREST RESERVES  
AND RESOURCES  
TABLE A: EL FAYUM FIELD AT 31 DECEMBER 2019 (MMBOE)

Reserves1

Oil

Contingent Resources

Oil

Sum of Reserves and 
Contingent Resources1

Total

1P

17.7

1C

1.5

2P

28.5

2C

23.5

3P

33.1

3C

41.5

1P & 1C

2P & 2C

3P & 3C

19.2

52.0

74.6

Oil & Gas 2C Contingent Resource 1,2 

1   Reserves and Contingent Resources have been audited independently 

by McDaniel’s 

As of 1 January, 2019 

12.2 

4.2 

16.4 

– 

16.4 

TABLE B: TGT FIELD AT 31 DECEMBER 2019 (MMBOE)

As at acquisition date  
(2 April 2019) 

Revision 

2C Contingent Resources as 
of 31 December 2019 

Total Group 2P Reserves & 
2C Contingent Resources 3,4 
as of 31 December 2019 

–

(3.7) 

–

0.4 

–

22.3

22.3

(3.3) 

1.2 

(2.1) 

Reserves3

8.5 

4.6 

13.1 

23.5 

36.6 

Oil

Gas1

Total

23.9 

10.6 

34.5 

52.0 

86.5 

Contingent Resources

1P

10.4

0.4

10.8

1C

4.8

0.1

4.9

2P

14.6

0.8

15.4

2C

8.2

0.2

8.5

3P

18.5

1.3

19.8

3C

11.5

0.4

11.9

1P & 1C

2P & 2C

3P & 3C

15.2

0.5

15.7

22.8

1.1

23.9

29.9

1.7

31.7

Oil

Gas1

Total

Sum of Reserves  
and Contingent Resources2

Oil

Gas1

Total

1   Assumes oil equivalent conversion factor of 6,000 standard cubic feet per barrel  

of oil equivalent.

2  The summation of Reserves and Contingent Resources has been prepared by  

the Company.

3  Reserves and Contingent Resources have been audited independently by RISC.

TABLE C: CNV FIELD AT 31 DECEMBER 2019 (MMBOE)

Reserves3

Oil

Gas1

Total

Contingent Resources

Oil

Gas1

Total

Sum of Reserves  
and Contingent Resources2

Oil

Gas1

Total

1P

2.9

1.4

4.3

1C

1.2

0.6

1.8

2P

4.0

2.0

6.0

2C

3.1

1.5

4.6

3P

5.1

2.5

7.6

3C

5.0

2.5

7.5

1P & 1C

2P & 2C

3P & 3C

4.1

2.0

6.1

7.1

3.5

10.6

10.1

5.0

15.1

1   Assumes oil equivalent conversion factor of 6,000 standard cubic feet per barrel  

of oil equivalent.

2  The summation of Reserves and Contingent Resources has been prepared by  

the Company.

3  Reserves and Contingent Resources have been audited independently by RISC.

1  Reserves and contingent resources are categorised in line with  

2018 SPE standards. 

2  Assumes an oil equivalent conversion factor of 6,000 standard  

cubic feet per barrel of oil equivalent. 

3  Reserves and Contingent Resources have been independently  

audited by Risc Advisory Pty Ltd. 

4  Reserves and Contingent Resources have been independently  

audited by McDaniels.

FIG 2. VIETNAM RESERVES STATISTICS

Net Working Interest, MMBOE

As of 1 January, 2019 

Production 

Revision 

2P Commercial Reserves as  
of 31 December 20191,2 

2C Contingent Resources1,2 

As of 1 January, 2019 

Revision 

2C Contingent Resources  
as of 31 December 20191,2 

Total Vietnam 2P Reserves & 
2C Contingent Resources3  
as of 31 December 2019 

TGT

16.2 

(2.0) 

1.2 

15.4 

12.2 

(3.7) 

8.5 

CNV

6.8 

(0.6) 

(0.2) 

6.0 

4.2 

0.4 

4.6 

Total  
Vietnam 

23.0 

(2.6) 

1.0 

21.4 

16.4 

(3.3) 

13.1 

23.9 

10.6 

34.5

1   Reserves and contingent resources are categorised in line with 2018 SPE standards.
2   Assumes an oil equivalent conversion factor of 6,000 standard cubic feet per 

barrel of oil equivalent.

3  Reserves and contingent resources have been independently audited by RISC.

FIG 3. EGYPT RESERVES STATISTICS

Net Working Interest, MMBBL

Oil & Gas 2P Commercial Reserves1,2 

As of 1 January, 2019

As at acquisition date (2 April 2019)

Production

Revision

2P Commercial Reserves as of 31 December 2019

Ol & Gas 2C Contingent Resources1,2

As of 1 January, 2019

As at acquisition date (2 April 2019)

Revision

2C Contingent Resources as of 31 December 20191,2

Total Egypt 2P Reserves & 2C Contingent Resources3
as of 31 December 2019

Egypt

–

21.6 

(1.4)

8.3

28.5 

–

22.3

1.2

23.5

52.0

1   Reserves and contingent resources are categorised in line with 2018 SPE standards.
2  Assumes oil equivalent conversion factor 6,000 scf/boe.
3  Reserves and Contingent Resources have been independently audited by McDaniel.

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCE REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONS.172(1) Companies 
Act 2006

The duty under s.172(1) of the Companies 
Act 2006 is applied in addition to the other 
duties of a Director. Each Director must 
discharge these duties in accordance with 
the duty of care, skill and diligence both 
objectively and to a subjective standard.

In accordance with section 172(1) of the 
Companies Act 2006, the Directors of the 
Company have a statutory duty to promote 
the success of the Company. The Board at 
Pharos, as individuals and together, 
consider that they have acted in a way that 
would most likely promote the success of 
the Company, to deliver the goals and 
objectives for the benefit of its members 
as a whole in relation to all stakeholders 
who may be affected by or engaging with 
the Company’s activities. 

Board meetings and discussions
The Board has always taken into account the 
s.172 obligations during the year in line with 
the new reporting requirements. Their key 
decisions have been specifically confirmed 
at each Board meeting to take into account 
these matters. This has been supplemented 
by the roles of the individual directors giving 
due regard and consideration of each 
element of the s.172 requirements including: 

a)  The likely consequences of any decisions 

in the long-term;

b) The interests of the employees;

c)  The requirements to foster business 

relationships with suppliers, customers, 
and others;

d)  The impact on the community and 
environment of the Company’s 
operations;

e)  The desirability of the Company 
maintaining a reputation for high 
standards of business conduct; and 

f)  The need to act fairly as between 

members of the company.

For examples, the Chair has taken particular 
interest in the considerations relating to 
shareholders. The Chair of the ESG 
committee has taken particular interest in 
the relations with employees and other 
stakeholders. 

40

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019During its meetings and discussions, 
the Board considers decisions with 
keen regard to consequences in the long 
term for the business; Board papers are 
drafted to promote discussion and provide 
options for the Board to hold an informed 
and balanced debate. 

The interests of the Company’s employees 
is a key element of the statutory duty 
under s. 172(1). As we have demonstrated, 
our NEDs responsible for employee 
engagement meet with the workforce to 
ensure open lines of communication and 
dialogue. Improved communication has 
been a valuable development in this 
stakeholder relationship during 2019.

The Company’s business relationships with 
suppliers, customers and others is under 
review and consideration on a regular basis 
from vendor due diligence to active 
contracts management. Vendor due 
diligence is actively undertaken before a 
service provider of any size is engaged. 
The process has been streamlined in 2019 
and ensures the financial robustness and 
reputation of our supply chain. Significant 
contracts, concessions and commitments 
are considered by the executive and the 
Board, supported by Board papers outlining 
impact and consequences of potential 
decisions. Our relationships with our joint 
venture partners are key in developing these 
strong foundations and will support our 
business in the future.

By establishing the ESG Committee during 
2019 the organisation has provided robust 
evidence of its commitment to ESG in the 
sector. This Committee is a strong example 
of Pharos’ engagement with stakeholders 
and acting on recommendation and 
feedback. Please see page 77 for 
explanation of its activities and future 
objectives.

Our Business Ethics and Anti Corruption 
Policy was revised, updated and approved 
by the Board in September 2019. We 
undertook a complete review of the policy 
following the integration of the Egyptian 
assets to the business, including ensuring 
that our engagements with government 
officials in all countries are recorded and 
monitored internally. This ensures that our 
Company understands its Code of 
Business Conduct and Ethics and places 
it at the forefront of our engagement with 
public officials.

The Board has an obligation and duty  
to ensure that we exercise our intention to 
behave responsibly. The management team 
is obliged to execute the business 
responsibly and to the highest standards. 
We communicate regularly with the 
Executive Directors and maintain open 
communication with the management team 
to ensure the two-way information flow is 
clear and open. Each Board member brings 
individual judgement and considerable 
experience to decision-making and 
carefully assesses the course of action 
which is most likely to promote the success 
of the Company.

We will act and make decisions  
responsibly in the interests of the 
Company, our shareholders and 
stakeholders, delivering our plan and 
working closely to consider the best 
opportunities for the Company. Detailed 
Board and Committee papers are  
carefully prepared and analysed to  
ensure all scenarios and options are fully 
considered in a timely and consistent 
fashion in meetings.

In accordance with s. 172(1), we have 
also continued to consult with, and take 
account of, the views of our investors, 
employees, partners, governments, 
suppliers and other stakeholders 
throughout the year. 

These initiatives have included: 

•  Rigorous assessment of all suppliers/
potential suppliers/ partners and 
offtakers

•  Frequent meetings between Executive 
Directors and in-country regulators  
and partners, reported to the Board

•  Responsibility for workforce 

engagement assigned to John Martin 
and Rob Gray who are both  
Independent NEDs

•  The establishment of the ESG 

Committee

Focus on shareholder engagement, 
including:

•  A section of the agenda for each 

regularly scheduled meeting of the 
Board being dedicated to investor  
and stakeholder considerations.

•  Reports from brokers and financial  
PR on feedback from investors and 
research analysts.

9.Pharos Energy 5922 AR Operations-Review_20-04-08.indd   41

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCE REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONFINANCIAL REVIEW

Building on  
financial strength

Pharos’ financial strategy is founded on  
its approach to capital discipline, capital 
allocation and capital returns.

The acquisition is a significant step forward 
in Pharos’ key objective of expanding and 
diversifying its resource base to create a 
full-cycle, growth orientated E&P Company 
of scale. Our new presence in Egypt has 
created a platform from which we can build 
future growth in Egypt and the wider 
Middle East & North Africa (MENA) region.

2019 we completed the acquisition of the 
Egyptian assets and the revenue over the 
period to year end was $34.4m. Revenues 
from the El Fayum Concession are stated 
after accounting for government 
entitlements. There was a small realised 
loss on our hedge position in the year of 
$0.2m (2018: $nil). 

The consideration for the transaction was a 
mixture of cash and shares, with the cash 
element funded from internally generated 
free cash flow together with a Reserve 
Based Lending facility (RBL) over our assets 
in Vietnam.

Consideration

Cash paid to Merlon shareholders 

Value of shares issued to  
Merlon shareholders 

Repayment of Merlon RBL 

Total consideration 

$m

136.1

59.7

19.4

215.2

All assets and liabilities acquired in the El 
Fayum business as at 2 April 2019 have 
been brought on to the balance sheet at 
fair value and the results of that business 
from that date forward are included as a 
new and separate business segment.

Operating performance
The Group continued to deliver robust 
revenue of $189.7m, representing an 8% 
increase over the prior year (2018: $175.1m). 
The revenue for Vietnam of $155.5m (2018: 
$175.1m) reduced year on year largely as a 
result of the lower average realised crude 
oil price of $68.48/bbl (2018: $74.34/bbl),  
a premium to Brent of $4/bbl (2018: $3/bbl), 
and a slight decline in production from 
7,274 boepd to 7,081 boepd. On 2 April 

Group cash operating costs were $41.5m1 
(2018: $36.2m). Vietnam decreased over 
24% from $36.2m to $27.6m mainly as a 
result of the improved terms of the 
extended FPSO and bareboat charter 
contracts. The cash operating costs of the 
Egyptian assets feature for the first time 
and were $13.9m for the period following 
completion to end of 2019. The Group 
operating cost per barrel was $10.45 (2018: 
$13.63), an improvement of 23%. In Vietnam, 
the per barrel cost was $10.69/boe (2018: 
$13.63), a decrease of over 21%. In Egypt the 
operating cost per barrel was $10.01/boe.

Group DD&A associated with producing 
assets increased to $74.4m (2018: $51.8m). 
This was partly due to the introduction of 
the Egyptian assets for the first time, which 
added $14.2m, plus an increase of $8.4m 
reflecting the reserves adjustments on 
both TGT and CNV made at the beginning 
of the year. 

Administrative expenses for the year 
totalled $23.1m (2018: $28.4m). After 
adjusting for the non-cash items under 
IFRS 2 Share Based Payment and IFRS 16 
Leases, the administrative expense is 
$18.8m (2018: $26.0m), which included 
$1.8m (2018: $9.6m) on new venture third 

Finance strategy
Our finance strategy continues to underpin 
the Group’s business model and goes hand 
in hand with our commitment to building 
shareholder value through capital growth 
and sustainable dividends. 

The finance strategy is founded on three 
core areas – capital discipline, capital 
allocation and capital return.

In this current period of turmoil, with oil 
prices at a multi-year low, these three core 
areas come into sharp focus and will guide 
the business to preserve capital and 
balance sheet strength at this time.

Pharos’ results for this year-end are the first 
to include our new concession in Egypt, El 
Fayum, acquired on 2 April 2019 through 
the Merlon acquisition. 

>  Read more
  Non-IFRS measures on page 156

42

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019Our finance strategy continues  
to underpin the Group’s business 
model and goes hand in hand with  
our commitment to building 
shareholder value through capital 
growth and sustainable dividends. 
Jann Brown 
Managing Director and Chief Financial Officer

party costs, reflecting continued effort on 
portfolio rationalisation and capturing new 
business, as well as $1.8m for the Egyptian 
assets following completion.

Operating profit from continuing 
operations for the year was $38.0m (2018: 
$42.1m, excluding a $37.8m reversal of an 
impairment charge on CNV), reflecting the 
lower commodity price environment 
throughout the year.

Other/exceptional expenses for the year 
totalled $16.7m (2018: $0) of which $13.6m 
related to the assignment fee for the 
acquisition of El Fayum and $3.1m was 
incurred for redundancy payments to staff.

Finance costs increased to $11.5m (2018: 
$2.5m). This was mainly due to $7.0m (2018: 
$0) of RBL related interest and expenses 
and $2.7m (2018: $0.6m) amortisation of 
capitalised borrowing costs.

Taxation
The tax expense for the year relates 
exclusively to tax charges in Vietnam as no 
taxable profit arose in Egypt. The charge 
decreased to $38.2m (2018: $42.1m, 
excluding the impact of the reversal of the 
impairment charge $13.9m) in line with 
profit. The Group’s effective tax rate 
approximates to the statutory tax rate in 
Vietnam of 50%, after adjusting for 
non-deductible expenditure and tax losses 
not recognised after expenditure. In Egypt, 
under the terms of the concession all local 
taxes arising are settled by EGPC. 

Loss/Profit post tax
The post tax loss for the year from 
continuing operations and prior to 
exceptional costs was $9.8m (2018: loss 
$13.7m, prior to reversal of impairment). 
Overall loss for the year was $24.5m  
(2018: $27.7m profit).

Cash flow
Net cash flow from continuing operations 
amounted to $72.3m (2018: $55.9m). 

Net operating cash flow for the year 
(before working capital movements) was 
$117.2m (2018: $96.7m). 

Capital expenditure on continuing 
operations for the year was $63.4m (2018: 
$22.4m). This increase year on year is  
due to the ramp up of activity, with the 
acquisition of 2D seismic data on Blocks 
125 & 126 in Vietnam, commencement  
of the TGT drilling programme and 
continuous drilling activity within Egypt.

Net cash flows from investing activities 
included a cash outflow for the cash 
consideration of El Fayum of $153.1m.

A final dividend for the year of $27.4m 
(2018: $23.3m) was paid to shareholders in 
May 2019 following approval at the 2019 
AGM of a final dividend of 5.50p (2018: 
5.25p) per share. 

Tax strategy and total tax contribution
Tax is managed proactively and responsibly 
with the goal of ensuring that the Group is 
compliant in all countries in which it holds 
interests. Any tax planning undertaken is 
commercially driven and within the spirit  
as well as the letter of the law. 

This approach forms an integral part of 
Pharos’ sustainable business model.

The Group’s Code of Business Conduct  
& Ethics seeks to build open, cooperative 
and constructive relationships with tax 
authorities and governmental bodies in all 
territories in which it operates. The Group 
supports greater transparency in tax 
reporting to build and maintain stakeholder 
trust. We have a number of overseas 
subsidiaries which were set up some time 
ago and the Group is now proactively 
planning to bring these into the UK tax net 
to ensure greater transparency and 
comparability. No additional taxes are 
expected to be due as a result of this 
exercise.

During 2019, the total payments to 
governments for the Group amounted to 
$232.7m (2018: $202.4m), of which $165.5m 
or 71% (2018: $196.5m or 97%) was related 
to the Vietnam producing licence areas, of 
which $113.5m (2018: $133.0m) was for 
indirect taxes based on production 
entitlement. Egypt was paid a total of 
$63.1m of which $46.4m relates to indirect 
taxes based on production entitlement.  
The breakdown of other contributions, 
including payroll taxes and other taxes is 
contained within the additional information 
on page 159.

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCE REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONFINANCIAL REVIEW CONTINUED

CASH OPERATING COST PER BARREL*

Cost of sales

Less

Depreciation, depletion and amortisation

Production based taxes

Inventories

Other cost of sales

Cash operating costs

Production (BOEPD) 

Cash operating cost per BOE ($) 

DD&A PER BARREL*

Depreciation, depletion and amortisation

Production (BOEPD)

DD&A per BOE ($)

2019 
$m

128.6

(74.4)

(12.3)

3.5

(3.9)

41.5

12,136

10.45

2019 
$m

74.4

12,136

18.74

CASH OPERATING COST PER BARREL BY SEGMENT

Cost of sales

Less

Depreciation, depletion and amortisation 

Production based taxes

Inventories

Other cost of sales

Cash operating costs

Production (BOEPD) 

Cash operating cost per BOE ($) 

DD&A PER BARREL BY SEGMENT

Depreciation, depletion and amortisation

Production (BOEPD)

DD&A per BOE ($)

Vietnam  
$m

Egypt***  
$m

99.1

29.5

(60.2)

(12.3)

3.5

(2.5)

27.6

7,081

10.69

(14.2)

–

–

(1.4)

13.9

5,055

10.01

Vietnam  
$m

Egypt***  
$m

60.2

7,081

23.29

14.2

5,055

10.25

MOVEMENTS IN THE PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT 

2019 
$m

507.2

184.7

53.3

7.2

(74.4)

(1.1)

–

676.9

507.2

669.6

7.3

676.9

37.8

507.2

507.2

As at 1 Jan

Egypt assets acquired

Capital spend

Revision in decommissioning assets

DD&A – Oil and gas properties

DD&A – Other assets

Reversal of impairment

As at 31 Dec

Property, Plant and Equipment

Right-to-use-Asset (IFRS 16 Impact)

As at 31 Dec

* 

  Cash operating cost per barrel and DD&A per barrel are alternative  
 performance measures. See page 156

**     2018 included Vietnam only
***   Egypt from the date of acquisition

44

2018** 
$m

104.6

(51.8)

(15.1)

(0.1)

(1.4)

36.2

7,274

13.63

2018** 
$m

51.8

7,274

19.51

Total  
$m

128.6

(74.4)

(12.3)

3.5

(3.9)

41.5

12,136

10.45

Total  
$m

74.4

12,136

18.74

2018 
$m

505.9

–

15.5

-

(51.8)

(0.2)

37.8

Balance sheet
Intangible assets increased during the 
period to $20.4m (2018: $5.8m). $10.1m was 
added in relation to Blocks 125 & 126 in 
Vietnam where 2D seismic was acquired. In 
Egypt $4.2m was incurred, including $2.4m 
for North Beni Suef. The remaining $0.3m 
relates to the assets acquired in Israel in 
the bid round. Licences were signed in 
October 2019.

The movements in the Property, Plant and 
Equipment asset class are shown above. 

There are no impairments to the Group’s 
producing assets (2018: Impairment 
reversal $37.8m).

Cash is set aside into abandonment funds 
for both TGT and CNV. These abandonment 
funds are operated by PetroVietnam and, as 
the Group retains the legal rights to the 
funds pending commencement of 
abandonment operations, they are treated 
as other non-current assets in our financial 
statements.

Oil inventory was $8.2m at 31 December 
2019 (2018: $4.1m), of which $7.7m related to 
Vietnam and $0.5m to Egypt. Trade and 
other receivables increased to $41.2m (2018: 
$19.6m) of which $19.3m (2018: $17.3m) 
relates to Vietnam and $21.3m to Egypt, 
mainly due to timing of crude oil cargos.

Cash and cash equivalents decreased to 
$58.5m (2018: $240.1m) mainly due to cash 
consideration for the acquisition of El 
Fayum of $136.1m and $19.4m for the 
repayment of the Merlon RBL. 

Trade and other payables increased to 
$35.5m (2018: $22.9m), of which $18.8m 
relates to the newly acquired Egypt 
payables. Tax payable was $8.8m 
(2018: $5.2m). 

Borrowings increased to $98.1m (2018: 
$95.6m) mainly due to the amortisation 
of the capitalised borrowing cost $2.7m 
(2018: $0).

Long-term provisions comprise the Group’s 
decommissioning obligations in Vietnam 
which have increased from $51.7m at 2018 
year-end to $60.5m at 2019 mainly due to 
new provisions and changes in estimates of 
$7.2m and the unwinding of the discount of 
$1.6m. No decommissioning obligation 
exists in Egypt under the terms of the 
Concession Agreement. 

10.Pharos Energy 5922 AR Financial-Review_20-04-08.indd   44

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019We announced in January of this year our 
intention to pay a dividend of 2.75 pence 
per Ordinary Share in 2020. We have now 
entered a period of global economic 
uncertainty, driven by the outbreak of 
COVID-19 and the pressure that this is 
putting on oil price against this backdrop. 
The Company is focused on preserving 
balance sheet strength and has therefore 
decided to defer all discretionary 
expenditure including the dividend until 
such time as the medium to long term 
outlook is clearer.

Financial outlook
Pharos’ financial strength is founded on our 
long-term approach to managing capital to 
provide risk adjusted full cycle returns, 
which has allowed us to return significant 
amounts of capital to shareholders. The 
new assets added in Egypt and in Israel 
provide low-cost opportunities to create 
value and generate cash flow to underpin 
the sustainability of the dividends over the 
longer term. The acquisition of El Fayum in 
Egypt creates an entry into the MENA 
region and provides not just a platform for 
organic growth but also a base from which 
we can explore further growth 
opportunities in 2020 and beyond.

The Pharos business plan is built for long 
term resilience - our leverage is modest, our 
commitments manageable and in Vietnam 
life of field Brent breakeven prices are 
c.$12/bbl for CNV and c.$24/bbl for TGT. In 
Egypt, the breakeven prices are higher but 
our contractual positions give us the 
flexibility to defer our capital expenditure, 
and we are currently planning to do so.

These measures set us up to weather the 
current storm and to preserve our capital. 
We are significantly protected by our 
hedges over production in H1 2020 and we 
preserve the financial flexibility while the 
global situation prevails. 

The breakdown of other contributions, 
including payroll taxes and other taxes is 
contained within the additional information 
on page 159.

Jann Brown 
Managing Director and 
Chief Financial Officer

Own shares
The Pharos EBT holds ordinary shares of the 
Company for the purposes of satisfying 
long-term incentive awards for senior 
management. At the end of 2019, the trust 
held 2,897,094 (2018: 2,897,094), 
representing 0.71% (2018: 0.85%) of the 
issued share capital.

This analysis has required us to stress test at 
significantly lower levels due to the recent 
drop in the oil price. The hedging that has 
already been put in place for 2020 covers 
70% of the Group’s forecast H1 2020 
entitlement volumes securing a minimum 
price for this hedged volume of $61.3 per 
barrel, which stands us in good stead.

In addition, as at 31 December 2019, the 
Company held 9,122,268 (2018: 9,122,268) 
treasury shares, representing 2.24% (2018: 
2.67%) of the issued share capital. 

Going concern
Pharos regularly monitors its business 
activities, financial position, cash flows and 
liquidity through detailed forecasts. 
Scenarios and sensitivities are also regularly 
presented to the Board, including changes in 
commodity prices and in production levels 
from the existing assets, plus other factors 
which could affect the Group’s future 
performance and position.

The key assumptions and related 
sensitivities include a “Reasonable Worst 
Case” (RWC) sensitivity with a reduction in 
Brent oil to $54/bbl in 2020 and $58.5/bbl 
thereafter. The Board has considered the 
risk of further oil price falls as a result of the 
recent impact on commodity prices of the 
global outbreak of the COVID-19 virus and 
Saudi Arabia’s decision to increase 
production. An additional sensitivity has 
been developed based on a Brent oil price 
of $30/bbl in 2020, increasing by $5/bbl in 
each quarter of 2021, concurrent with 
reductions in Vietnam production compared 
to our base case of 5%. In such a scenario, 
we have identified appropriate mitigating 
actions, including the deferral of additional 
uncommitted capital expenditure, which 
would be available to us.

Our business in Vietnam remains robust at 
oil prices of less than $25/bbl .We have 
limited expenditure commitments over the 
whole business most of which fall outside 
2020. All of our debt is secured against the 
Vietnam assets. Finally, our business in Egypt 
provides a high degree of flexibility through 
the use of short-term drilling contracts, 
which can be terminated with 60 days 
notice.

The forecasts outlined above show that the 
Group will have sufficient financial 
headroom for the 12 months from the date 
of approval of the 2019 Accounts. Based on 
this analysis, the Directors have a reasonable 
expectation that the Group has adequate 
resources to continue in operational 
existence for the foreseeable future. 
Therefore, they continue to use the going 
concern basis of accounting in preparing 
the annual Financial Statements. 

Annual dividend and Company 
distributable reserves
Pharos remains committed to paying a 
dividend. During the year, the Company 
paid a final dividend to shareholders in 
respect of the financial year ended 
31 December 2018 of 5.50 pence per 
Ordinary Share (2018: 5.25 pence), at a cost 
to the Company of $27.4m (2018: $23.3m).

10.Pharos Energy 5922 AR Financial-Review_20-04-08.indd   45

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCE REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONRISK MANAGEMENT

Risk Management  
Report

Effective risk management is integral to Pharos 
achieving its corporate strategy to further 
strengthen the business through growth in line  
with our financial strategy of capital discipline,  
capital allocation and capital return, while protecting 
our personnel, assets, the communities in which  
we operate, and our corporate reputation. 

Pharos’ Risk Management process requires 
that all business units within the Group 
conduct on going risk management and 
reporting to the Risk Committee and the 
Board. The Risk Policy defines the specifics 
of the Risk Management process, describes 
the risk tools (i.e. Risk Matrix and Risk 
Register), and outlines the reporting process 
and responsibilities in order to meet the 
Group’s Risk Management Framework.

Risk Management and reporting is a 
necessary and important activity at  
Pharos. It is an internal control process 
implemented by the Board, management 
and all other personnel; applied throughout 
the organisation and all functions, designed 
to identify potential events which may 
affect the business, and manage risks  
to be controlled within its risk appetite. In 
addition, Risk Management is a process 
that provides reasonable assurance 
regarding the achievement of the Group’s 
objectives. A comprehensive Risk 
Management approach allows Pharos to: 

•  Assist the Group in achieving its 

corporate objectives;

•  Better manage the business by 

anticipating potential and emerging risks 
and devise preventive/mitigating 
measures or develop alternate 
strategies; and

•  Meet regulatory requirements. 

MANAGING OUR RISKS

Principal risks in 2018

Principal risks in 2019

•  Lack of acquisitions
•  Merlon acquisition may not complete
•  Health, Safety, Environmental and Social
•  Climate change
•  Commodity price
•  Financial discipline & governance
•  Partners’ alignment
•  Reserves
•  Cyber security
•  Human resources
•  Stakeholders
•  Political and regional
•  Business conduct and bribery

•  Lack of growth due to insufficient funds to 

meet work programmes

•  Volatility in production levels
•  Health, Safety, Environmental and Social
•  Climate change
•  Commodity price
•  Financial discipline & governance
•  Partners’ alignment
•  Reserves
•  Cyber security
•  Human resources
•  Sub-optimal capital allocation
•  Political and regional
•  Business conduct and bribery

The Business Management System (“BMS”) 
evolves continually at Pharos but at its core 
comprises a set of Policies and Standards, 
including the Risk Management Policy 
which is based on ISO 31000 Risk 
Management Principles and Guidelines. 
The BMS is supported by procedures and 
processes for each function and business 
unit to control day-to-day business 
activities. This Internal Control Framework 
and Risk Management process ensures 
that risk identification, assessment and 
mitigation are all properly embedded 
throughout the organisation. Whilst the Risk 
Management approach is designed to 
provide a reasonable assurance that 

material financial irregularities and control 
weaknesses can be detected, the process 
does not totally eliminate the possiblity that  
a risk could have a material adverse effect  
on our operations, earnings, liquidity and 
financial outlook. Risk is often described  
as an event, change of circumstances or a 
consequence. Pharos’ risk reporting focuses 
on identifying risk as a potential event. Each 
event will be assessed on its potential impact 
to people, the environment, the respective 
asset/financial impact on operations, and  
the Group’s reputation in terms of severity 
and likelihood. 

46

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019RISK MANAGEMENT FRAMEWORK

Risk hierarchy and assurance process at Pharos
Oversight, Accountability, Empowerment, Monitoring and Assurance

Board of Directors

•  Approves of the Group’s Risk Management Framework and processes
•  Ensures the functioning and development of the Group’s Risk Management 

system, approves its composition and organises its work

•  Sets the tone and culture of Risk Management
•  Performs a comprehensive assessment of the principal and emerging risks

Audit and Risk Committee

•  Evaluates the Risk Management system and preparation of the recommendations for the Board of Directors
•  Approves of risk assessment criteria
•  Conducts decision-making on how to respond to risk and promotes continual improvement of the Risk Management 

system

•  Elaborates on recommendations to increase the effectiveness of risk mitigations

Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Committee

•  Assists the Board in defining the Pharos Group’s strategy relating to ESG matters
•  Oversees the Pharos Group’s management of ESG matters and compliance with legal and regulatory requirements
•  Reports on these matters to the Board and, where appropriate, make recommendations to the Boarda

Managers/risk owners

Organisers of Risk Management  
at business unit level

Internal controls/Internal Audit

•  Identification and analysis of risks that 

affect the set targets – maintaining Risk 
Registers by function/asset

•  Organisation and co-ordination of Risk 
Management process by Risk Manager/
Country Managers

•  Informing immediate supervisor about  

•  Analysis and consolidation of information 

the risks

on risks

•  Developing measures of exposure to risk 

•  Risk training, monitoring, control and ensuring 

and risk monitoring

•  Line managers conduct quality and 

plausibility checks (i.e. comparing risk data 
to budget baseline, reviewing preventive 
measures)

Risk Management is fully embedded and 
integrated throughout the Group

•  Preparation of and summarising periodic 

reporting on risks

•  Coordination of work on improvement of 

the Risk Management system

•  Performance of internal audit on specific 

topic/provide recommendations

•  Providing assistance on the evaluating and 

improving effectiveness of the Risk 
Management process

During 2019, Pharos conducted a review  
of the overall effectiveness of its Internal 
Controls Framework and identified a 
number of opportunities to continue  
to improve its effectiveness and further 
efforts to be deployed during 2020.

Black Hat workshop
Following the Capital Markets Day in 4Q 
2019, Pharos hosted the first “Black Hat” 
workshop with the participation of 
Managing Directors, the Chair of the Audit 
and Risk Committee, all Country Managers 
and all Head of Departments 
and Senior Managers at head office.  

The key objective was to: 

•  Increase awareness of how risk 
permeates everything we do 

•  Collect risk input, feedback and discuss 
risk perspectives from all stakeholders

•  Identify and implement key building 
blocks to improve Risk Management 
across the Group

Letter of Assurance
The annual cycle of monitoring at Pharos 
resulted in the year end completion of a 
Letter of Assurance from each key asset. 
The Letter of Assurance is a declaration by 
the head of each business unit that 

confirms compliance with corporate 
policies and standards, the HSES 
Management System, the Risk 
Management process, financial reporting 
and control over the joint venture 
operations and also highlights areas 
of concerns.

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCE REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONRISK MANAGEMENT CONTINUED

Internal Audit
The Board made a decision to further 
improve the Internal Controls Framework 
by appointing KPMG to perform a series of 
internal audits during 2020. KPMG kicked 
off this internal audit initiative in late 2019 –  
after carrying out a desk top review of the 
Group’s existing policies and procedures 
and interviews with the Executives, Audit 
and Risk Committee Chair and senior 
managers, an Internal Audit Plan was 
approved for execution during 2020. 

Recalibration of the heat map  
and risk tools
Feedback was obtained from risk owners, 
Country Managers and Senior Managers 
on the Risk Registers, the risk matrix which 
assists in the calibration of a risk on its 
likelihood and severity impact resulting in a 
number of changes to ensure the risk tools 
are simpler to utilise and fit-for-purpose to 
facilitate risk identification and assessment 
process for all risk owners.

Simple syntax

Cause

Risk

Effect

Risk response

Reduce

Accept

Avoid

Transfer

Board responsibility
The Board fulfils its role in risk oversight  
by developing policies and procedures 
around risk that are consistent with the 
organisation’s strategy and risk appetite, 
taking steps to foster risk awareness and 
encouraging a Company culture of risk 
adjusting awareness throughout the Group. 
The Audit and Risk Committee reports to 
the Board regarding the adequacy of Risk 
Management measures so that the Board 
has confidence that management can 
support them. The Board periodically 
reviews the principal risks facing the 
business, including an annual review of the 
effectiveness of the Risk Management 
process in identifying, assessing and 
mitigating any significant risks which may 
affect the Group’s business objectives.

Risk Management and the principal 
financial risks and uncertainties facing the 
Group are discussed in Note 3 of the 
Financial Statements. The Group’s Risk 
Management policies and procedures are 
further discussed in the Corporate 
Governance Report on pages 82 to 85 and 
in the Audit and Risk Committee Report on 
pages 90 to 95, where the significant 
issues related to the 2019 Financial 
Statements are also reported. Pharos’ BMS, 
which includes the Health, Safety, 
Environmental and Social Responsibility 
(‘HSES’) Management System (‘MS’), which 
comprises the Group’s internal control 
mechanisms of policies, procedures and 
guidelines through which the Group 
assesses, manages and mitigates its HSES 
risks and impacts, is described more fully in 
the Corporate Responsibility (‘CR’) Report 
on pages 56 to 72. 

The Board has carried out a review of the 
uncertainties surrounding the Group’s 
principal and emerging risks and 
recognises that a potential adverse event 
on Pharos could have a material impact on 
the Group’s future earnings and cash flows. 
The fluctuating prices of crude oil and gas 
remain a significant variable to monitor for 
the Group. Flash events are happening 
more frequently from international trade 
tensions, geopolitical events, sudden 
outbreak of diseases, climate change 
transition and physical risks which may 
require changes to our corporate price 
assumptions and production outlook which 
in turn may trigger impairment of assets. 

Regarding the principal risk of climate 
change, the Board has taken its potential 
ramifications seriously and is fully 
committed to managing and reducing its 
greenhouse gases, including setting up an 
ESG Committee and internal working 
group to deliver effective compliance with 
the Task Force on Climate-related Financial 
Disclosures (“TCFD”) recommendations. 
Environmental and social concerns 
continue to dominate the top long-term 
risks identified by key stakeholders – our 
corporate responsibility and sustainability 
to comply with the United Nations 
Sustainable Development Goals and the 
Paris Agreement on limiting global warming 
to below the 2 degree mark means that 
Pharos is committed to measuring and 
reducing its CO2e emissions at every point 
in its supply chains and future portfolio of  
investment mix. 

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019RISKS

Principal risks 
and mitigations

A summary of the key risks affecting Pharos and how these are mitigated  
to enable the Company to achieve its strategic objectives is as follows:

Key to change in likelihood  

 Increase 

 No Change 

 Decrease  N  New Risk

Strategic

1  Lack of growth due to insufficient funds to meet work programmes

Inability to complete further acquisitions in line with growth strategy

Causes
•  Reduced capital in oil and gas sector as 

investors review their policy on investment

•  Lack of opportunities (sector downturns)

•  Fluctuating oil prices/economic conditions

•  Target governance

•  Industry competition (higher for “good” assets)

•  Issues exposed by due diligence including 

technical risks/uncertainties, disputes

•  Resourcing limitations

•  Geopolitical risks

•  Inability to access suitable funding 

N 2 Volatility in production levels
Sub-optimal well performance

Causes
•  Inadequate waterflood responses

•  Incorrect well placements

•  Development wells uncommercial

•  Poor reservoir models

•  Lack of financing for drilling programme

Risk mitigation 
•  Focused M&A (scale & materiality) 

•  Regular review of funding options

•  Proactive dialogue with banks and other providers of capital

•  Quality and number of advisers

•  Intense opportunity screening 

•  Strong relationships/industry intelligence

•  Effective project management and resourcing

Risk mitigation 
•   Develop a clear wells strategy, focusing on performance 

improvement, regulatory compliance and increased activity

•  Increase drilling activity/plan-drill additional injection wells/frac 

injection zone

•  Reduce cost of well construction

•  Increase surveillance and intervention rates

•  Perform target workovers on producer/injection wells

•  De-risk best prospects/drill best prospects

•  Improve reservoir models

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3 Health, Safety, Environmental and Social risk

Reputational
Operational outages leading to lower production

Causes
•  Health, safety and environmental risks of major 

Risk mitigation 
•  Better understanding of our risks, implementing a bottom-up 

explosions, leaks or spills

approach at managing risk registers and proactive mitigation plan 

•  Facing oil and gas high-risk operating 

•  Improve structural and asset integrity through strong operational and 

conditions and HSES risks

•  Climate change impacts on the sector – 

production faces increasing risks from the 
impacts of climate change from extreme 
weather, sea level rise and water availability and 
the sector will need to build resilience to adapt 
to changing conditions

•  Security of workforce supply and human rights 
violations of workers and communities – child 
labour, terrorism and sabotage, social conflict 
and unrest

•  Coastal and marine ecology – impact on 

corals and marine biodiversity from offshore 
and coastal operations and tankers (spills)

•  Gas venting and flaring natural hazards and 

risks – well blow outs, localised land 
subsidence, land/water contamination

•  Non-alignment of new acquisitions’ HSES 

practices with Pharos’ corporate standards

•  Spread of COVID-19 virus

maintenance processes which are critical to preserving a safer 
environment

•  Comply with all legislative/regulatory frameworks and transitioning to 

a goal based approach focused on improving safety

•  Promote a positive health and safety culture where workers are given 
proper training and incentives to work safe with a zero tolerance for 
non-compliance

•  Environmental and Social Impact Assessment forward-looking 

assessment of:

•  climate impacts and need to adapt to changing climate conditions 

over the life of the asset 

•  regulatory developments

•  Emergency preparedness and spill prevention plan 

•  Controlled venting 

•  Control and management of pressurised oil and gas from boreholes 

•  Use of low impact extraction chemicals where alternatives exist 

•  Water management – securing of a sustainable water supply, 

recycling and reuse wastewater

•  Marine management plan – especially for offshore drilling

•  Implement early precautionary measures based on WHO guidance, 
restrict business travel and facilitate working from home where 
appropriate

4 Climate change risk

Lack of capital
Reputational
Increased operating costs

Causes
•  Pressure on investors to divest/avoid fossil fuel 

Risk mitigation 
•  Transparent reporting and participation in Carbon Disclosure Project 

companies/projects

(CDP)

•  Inability to find economically viable CO2e 

•  Embracing the TCFD recommendations, prepare and align Pharos’ 

reduction solutions

growth strategy to tackle climate concerns

•  Potential litigation and additional compliance 

obligations

•  Embeded climate change scenarios and evaluate “strategic fit” of 
climate change decisions on key business operations/directions

•  Global transition to a lower carbon intensity 

•  Continuous improvement of GHG emissions management and trigger 

initiatives to help CO2e emissions reduction

•  “Making climate change risk visible” – factoring in climate hazards 

when investing in exploration/development projects so that corporate 
models embed resilience into projects

economy which reduces oil prices and 
increases the risk of impairment

•  Increased climate regulation and disclosure 

•  Increase in carbon taxes/decarbonisation 

charges

•  Eco-consumers are increasing, potentially 
causing radical/transformational shifts in 
consumption of fossil fuels

•  Climate activists pressing prominent 

institutions and investors to abandon fossil 
investments – “greening” the financial system

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019Financial

5 Commodity price risk

Uncertainty on planning
Inability to fund work programme/dividend

Causes
•  On-going oil market volatility

Risk mitigation 
•  Oil commodity hedging

•  Geopolitical factors, including pressure on 

•  Comply with RBL requirements

investors to divest/avoid fossil fuel companies/
projects

•  Lower long-term prices tighten the margin of 
error for investments and increase the risk of 
impairment

•  Forecasting volatility swings are more complex 
as it is challenging to gauge what that means 
for the industry, affected communities and end 
users but is necessary for the future 
understanding of oil market dynamics

•  Negative cash flows & earnings degradation

•  Market speculation and trading in oil futures

•  Spread of COVID-19 virus impacting on oil 

prices

•  Maintain robust processes around treasury, governance, 

forecasting, credit and risk

•  Close monitoring of business activities, financial position cash flows

•  Control over procurement costs/effective management of supply 

chains derived from third parties – suppliers, joint venture partners, 
investors, and contractors

•  Stress test scenarios and sensitivities via principal compound risks 

analysis to ensure a level of robustness to downside price scenarios 

•  Capital discipline with focus on controlling and managing costs

•  Discretionary spend actively managed

6 Financial discipline and governance

Insufficient funds to finance growth plans and maintain dividends

Causes
•  RBL redetermination

Risk mitigation 
•   Strong financial discipline

•  Restrictions imposed in RBL facility limit 

•  Maintain robust systems, processes and application of Group’s 

flexibility

•  Equity and/or debt markets reducing 
investment in oil and gas activities

•  Financial fraud

Delegation of Authority

•  Discretionary spend actively managed

•  Continued engagement with lenders

•  Forecasting

•  Extension of licence terms in Vietnam

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Operational

7 Reserves risk

Future cash flows and value depend on producing our reserves 

Causes
•  Inaccurate reserves estimates

Risk mitigation
•  Improve reserves reporting by adhering to three key considerations: 

•  Pharos bears the responsibility of developing 
these reserve estimates, but subcontracts 
some of this work out to independent reserve 
engineers

•  Earlier impairment triggers due to low 

commodity price and/or capital constraints 
jeopardise planned exploration/development 
initiatives

•  Inherent uncertainties in the evaluation 
techniques to estimate the 2P reserves

consistency, transparency and utility

•  Disclose movements in reserves on a country-by-country basis

•  Subjective judgements are moderated

•  Material projects disclosed

•  Ongoing evaluation of projects in existing and potential new areas  

of interest and pursue development opportunities

•  Ensuring continuing adherence to industry best practice regarding 

technical estimates and judgements 

•  Ensuring peer and independent verification of future production 

profiles and reserve recovery

•  RBL compliance – Vietnam reserves are audited independently  

by reserves consultants approved by lenders

8 Partner alignment risk

Misalignment at JV/JOC level can delay investment
Adverse impact on production and cash flow

Causes
•  Co-venturers having divergent views on drilling 

Risk mitigation 
•  Active participation in JOC management

and upgrade programme 2020/21

•  Floating production, storage, and offloading 
vessel (FPSO) Tie-in Agreement (“TIA”) from 
other party

•  Delay in the Full Field Development Plan

•  Direct secondment

•  Agree on more equitable alignment of interest with Thang Long JOC 

regarding FPSO TIA

•  Application of internal control best practice under a procedural 

framework

•  2020 TGT work programme agreed in principle and preliminary 

preparation of bid packages 

9 Cyber risk

Major cyber security breach may result in loss of key confidential data
Unavailability of key systems

Causes
•  Sophistication and frequency of cyber attacks 

Risk mitigation 
•  Offsite installation of back-up system and Business Recovery Plan in 

increasing

place

•  Heavy reliance on and disruption to critical 

•  Cloud back-up solutions

business systems

•  Prevention and detection of cyber threats via a programme of 

•  Infiltration of spam emails corrupting our 

effective continuous monitoring

systems

•  Plan for staged integration (new acquisition) and upgrade of IT systems 

10 Human resource risk

Good skilled people are essential to ensure success

Causes
•  Failure to recruit and retain high calibre 

personnel to deliver on and implement growth 
strategy

•  Challenges in the recruitment & integration of 
additional technical expertise for the new 
acquisition

•  High costs for recruiting experienced workforce

Risk mitigation 
•  Remuneration Committee retains independent advisers to test the 
competitiveness of compensation packages for key employees

•  Ongoing succession planning

•  Maintain a competitive remuneration mix regarding incorporating 

bonus, long-term incentive and share option plans 

•  Build and use people networks in each country and advertise 

vacancies in these networks

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019Reputation

11 Sub-optimal capital allocation

Adverse reaction from current/future stakeholders
Investment decisions based on realistic/achievable economic assumptions

Causes
•  Scarcity of capital for investment projects

Risk mitigation 
•  Carry out robust economic analyses based on opportunities 

•  Investment decisions are guided by economic 
analyses based on key assumptions which may 
differ significantly in a volatile macroeconomic 
environment

high-grading to support capital allocation

•  Key KPIs such as NPV, IRR and payback used to compare across 

many project scenarios

•  Rig count investment scenarios are stress-tested against a range of 

•  Pressure to invest and produce growth and 

Brent oil price 

returns in the short term to maintain dividend 
payments

•  Relentless focus on better returns

•  Inability to “switch-off” drilling / investment 
commitments if economic assumptions 
change rapidly 

•  Non-operated ventures – Pharos always seeks to maximise its 

influence to promote best practice

•  Obtaining the views of its stakeholders through direct and indirect 

engagement

•  Maintain a balanced investment portfolio which allows a degree of 

resilience in adjusting short-term investment commitments 

12 Political and regional risk

Energy sector exposed to a wide range of political developments  
which may impact adversely on operating costs, compliance and taxation

Causes
•  Operations in challenging regulatory and 

Risk mitigation 
•   Canvass support in risk management by using both international and 

political environments

in-country professional advisers

•  Fiscal regimes can be subject to sudden 

•  Engage directly with the relevant authorities on a regular basis

change

•  Assess country risk profiles, trend analyses and on-the-ground 

•  Approval processes can be protracted causing 

reports by journalists/academics

delays

•  Thoroughly evaluate the risks of operating in specific areas and 

•  Government reform, political instability, civil 

assess commercial acceptability

unrest

•  Buy political risk insurance 

•  All operations are located outside of the EU and USD is the main 

currency of our business

13 Business conduct and bribery

Reputational damage and exposure to criminal charges

Causes
•  Present in countries with below average score 
on the Transparency International Corruption 
Index

Risk mitigation 
•   Ensure adequate due diligence prior to on-boarding with a risk based 

approach, including independent “Red Flags” checks

•  Annual training and compliance certifications by all associated persons

•  Lack of transparent procurement and 

investment policies

•  Compliance with Criminal Crime Offences 

(CCO) and UK Bribery Act 

•  Corruption, human rights issues

•  Increase awareness of Pharos’ Anti-Bribery and Corruption (“ABC”) 

policies for all employees and associated persons

•  Gifts and Hospitality declaration

•  Whistleblowing facility in place

•  CCO risk assessment and ongoing implementation of adequate 

procedures to prevent facilitation of tax evasion across all operations

•  Adhere to the principles of the Extractive Industries Transparency 

Initiative

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Viability statement

In accordance with the UK Corporate 
Governance code, the Board has assessed 
the prospects of the company over a 
period longer than the twelve months 
required to support the Going Concern 
Statement on page 45 of the Financial 
Statements.

In undertaking this assessment, the Board 
has carried out a robust review of the 
principal and emerging risks facing the 
Group, including those that would threaten 
its business model, future performance, 
solvency or liquidity, giving particular 
attention to the principal and emerging 
risks.

Our strategy and associated principal and 
emerging risks underpin both the Group’s 
three year base forecast and scenario 
testing, plus our longer term prospects and 
position. 

Our longer-term prospects and position
Group’s current position
•  Production assets in Vietnam and Egypt 

with low cash cost base 

•  Collectively Group oil sales are at a 

premium to Brent

•  Flexibility in the capital expenditure 

programme

•  Strong operating cash flows

•  Focus on capital discipline and avoiding 
high capital commitments in operations

•  Excellent HSES standards

Strategy & Business model
•  Strategy focussing on acquisition of 
further cash flow accretive assets to 
extend sustainability of the business over 
a longer period

Key assumptions
During the three year period the Group is 
expected to be dependent on its two cash 
generating assets in Vietnam and the El 
Fayum concession in Egypt.

•  Business model drawing on geoscience, 
engineering, financial and commercial 
talent

•  Access to capital, balanced by a focus on 
strict management of leverage levels 

The principal and emerging risks which are 
relevant to the assessment of the Group’s 
prospects are the same as those used to 
stress test our viability over the three-year 
period.

How we assess our viability
Our forecast is built on an asset-by-asset 
basis using a bottom up model and is stress 
tested by compounding downward 
scenarios.

The three-year period selected for testing 
covers the Group’s medium term capital 
plans and projections, in particular oil price 
projections, a fundamental driver of the 
groups operating cash flows, where market 
consensus data becomes less reliable for 
periods further ahead than three years.

Although individual assets are often 
modelled for periods longer than three 
years, to reflect the return on investments 
being considered over the life of field, the 
three-year period has been selected by the 
Board as most appropriate for the group as 
a whole. It provides management and the 
Board with sufficient and realistic visibility 
of the future industry environment whilst 
capturing the Group’s future expenditure 
commitments on its licences.

In assessing the Group’s viability over the 
next three years, it is recognised that all 
future assessments are subject to a level of 
uncertainty which increases with time and 
that future outcomes cannot be guaranteed.

The oil and gas reserves in both Vietnam 
and Egypt have been certified by Reserves 
Auditors, RISC (for Vietnam) and McDaniel 
(for Egypt). The base forecast models 
include the Group’s latest life of field 
production models and expenditure 
forecasts, in line with the profiles included 
in the reserves reports and, where 
guidance to the market has been given for 
the near term, in line with that guidance.

In our models we have used management’s 
best estimate of future commodity prices 
(based on recent forward curves), resulting 
in a base oil price prior to scenario testing 
of $60 for 2020 and $65 thereafter. The 
base price is also adjusted for hedging 
positions already in place. The impact of 
the spread of COVID-19 on the near term 
oil price is substantially negated by the 
hedging positions already in place.

The company has a Reserves Based 
Lending (RBL) facilty of $125 million over its 
Vietnam producing assets taken out in 
September 2018. The loan also has an 
accordion feature of a further $125 million 
which can be accessed by including further 
assets in the borrowing base. It is the 
intention to include the El Fayum assets in 
due course. This additional financing will 
provide further liquidity for investment into 
the company’s asset base but is not 
included within the going concern and 
viability calculations. The current borrowing 
levels and the repayment schedules 
generated by the base case and stress 
tested scenarios are included with the 
going concern and viability calculations.

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019The Board has considered the risk 
mitigation strategy for each of these  
risks and believes that the mitigation 
strategies are sufficient to reduce the 
impact of each risk to make it unlikely  
to jeopardise the Group’s viability  
during the three-year period.

The Directors have also reviewed the 
Group’s funding plan considering additional 
financing to fund growth strategies.

Based on all of these assessments, 
including the availability of actions which 
could be taken in the event of plausible 
negative scenarios occurring, the Directors 
confirm that they have a reasonable 
expectation that the Group will continue  
to operate and meet its liabilities as they  
fall due for the three year period to 
31 December 2022.

Climate Change
The Directors have also taken a longer-term 
assessment of the Group’s viability in 
relation to the impact of Climate Change 
through review of a third-party scenario 
which maps out a way to meet global 
sustainable energy goals in full, requiring 
rapid and widespread changes across all 
parts of the energy system. 

This scenario also charts a path fully 
aligned with the Paris Agreement, by 
holding the rise in global temperatures to 
“well below 2°C” and meets objectives 
related to universal energy access and 
cleaner air and as such assumes that there 
will be a significant reduction in the 
demand for hydrocarbons. The resulting oil 
price curve is in backwardation with a slow 
decline through to 2030 and beyond. The 
forecasted oil price in 2030 in this scenario 
remains above the price curve the Group 
has stress tested in its three-year viability 
statement window.

Base forecast flexed  
for combinations of the 
following scenarios 

Link to principal 
risks and 
uncertainties 

Level of  
severity tested 

Sustained drop  
in oil price 

4,5, 6

Reduction  
in production

1, 2, 3, 7, 8

Sharp drop in oil 
price over period of 
testing

5% reduction in 
production over 
period of testing or a 
do-nothing profile

Conclusion

Company remains viable with 
mitigating actions 

Company remains viable with 
mitigating actions

Increase in capex

6, 11

10% increase in capex 
over period of testing

Company remains viable with 
mitigating actions

Unfavourable event 
leading to lost 
production and 
increased capex

1, 2, 3, 6, 7, 8, 
11,12

Combination of tests 
above

Company remains viable with 
mitigating actions

Stress testing linked to Principal Risks
As well as the base model, the Board also 
considers several scenarios and has stress 
tested the forecast for a combination of a 
number of severe but plausible events that 
could impact its ability to fund planned 
activities and/or comply with the covenants 
and undertakings within its reserves based 
lending (RBL) facility agreement. These 
events include: 

•  A material and sustained reduction in the 
oil price putting pressure on the Group’s 
capital available for investment 

•  A material reduction in production

•  A material increase in capex

•  An unfavourable event resulting in lost 
production and increased capital costs

The oil price scenarios include one which is 
consistent with the most severe case 
outlined in the going concern assessment 
in the Financial Review page 45.

In all combinations tested the Group had 
access to mitigating actions, which allow us 
to meet all covenant levels in the RBL. The 
forecast cash flows are regularly monitored 
and reviewed to provide early warnings of 
any issues and to give sufficient time to 
take any necessary mitigating actions.

In considering the impact of these 
scenarios, the Directors have reviewed 
realistic mitigating actions that could be 
taken to reduce the impact of the 
underlying risk. These include reducing 
operating and administration costs, 
deferring uncommitted capital expenditure 
and revising our dividend policy. 

The potential impact of each of the other 
principal and emerging risks on the viability 
of the group during the assessment period 
has also been considered. Such risks 
include the inability to attract and retain 
appropriately skilled people and climate 
change. 

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Adding value 
in everything 
we do

Business
100%

c.99%

El Fayum oil
Oil sold and used domestically, contributing to host  
country development goals and access to energy  

TGT/CNV oil

Ethics
$232.7m 100%

Taxes and royalties paid  
to host governments 

Percentage of staff receiving  
anti-bribery and corruption  
training by 31 January 2020

People
Zero

Fatal accident frequency rate 
(number of fatal accidents per 
hundred million man-hours) for  
both employees and contractors

Zero

Lost time injury frequency rate 
(number of lost time injuries 
per million man-hours) for both 
employees and contractors

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019Our goal is to be a positive presence 
in the regions in which we operate, by  
providing responsible and sustainable 
development, resulting in value for  
host countries and local communities  
as well as for our own shareholders  
and employees. 
Dr Mike Watts 
Managing Director

Environment
283

2

Tonnes CO2e per 1,000 tonnes 
of hydrocarbon produced 

Oil/chemical spills  
(quantities greater than 100 litres)

Society
$400,000 $245,379

Combined total training levies in  
Vietnam and Egypt for  
investment in industry  
capacity building

Community and charitable  
investments supporting  
12 partnerships and projects  
in Vietnam through the HLHVJOC 
Charitable Donation Programme

 Business Page 60

 Ethics Page 63

 People Page 64

 Environment Page 67 

 Society Page 71

Our aim is to add value in everything  
we do through responsible, efficient  
and safe energy production.
We take our role in society very seriously. 
We are committed to open, transparent 
communication, and taking a rigorous, 
conscientious approach to the 
environment, our role in society, our 
business practices and ethics, and how  
we relate to people.

That includes all our stakeholders: the 
people who work with us directly and 
indirectly, those who live where we 
operate, and the host governments and 
authorities that regulate our activities.

Corporate Responsibility (“CR”) 
governance & management
A long-term goal of the Group is to be  
a positive presence in regions in which it 
operates by providing responsible and 
sustainable development. The objective  
of sustainability will apply equally to the 
Company’s traditional reputation for 
financial discipline and return of value to 
shareholders as it will to the Group’s 
objective of striving towards the goal of 
establishing and maintaining the highest 
operating standards across Environmental, 
Social and Governance (“ESG”) matters.  
To reflect Pharos’ ongoing commitment  
to operating a sustainable business, the  
Board has established a new committee, 
the ESG Committee. 

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The Board is committed to treating all stakeholders 
in every area of operations with honesty, fairness, 
openness, engagement and respect. 

Dr Mike Watts 
Managing Director

The Terms of Reference of the ESG 
Committee was constituted by resolution 
of the Board of Directors of the Company 
on 10 September 2019 to:

•  Assist the Board in defining the Pharos 

Group’s strategy relating to ESG matters;

•  Review the policies, programmes, 

practices and initiatives of the Pharos 
Group relating to ESG matters ensuring 
they remain effective and up to date;
•  Provide oversight of the Pharos Group’s 

management of ESG matters and 
compliance with legal and regulatory 
requirements, including applicable rules 
and principles of corporate governance, 
and applicable industry standards;
•  Report on these matters to the Board 

and, where appropriate, make 
recommendations to the Board; and
•  Report as required to shareholders of 
the Company on the activities and  
remit of the Committee.

The Board is also fully committed to 
effective compliance with the 2018 UK 
Corporate Governance Code, applicable to 
the current financial year of the Company 
ending 31 December 2019. The Board’s 
objective is to be recognised for 
meticulous governance, with a considerate 
and pragmatic approach to its business.

In terms of corporate responsibility and 
community engagement, the Board is 
committed to treating all stakeholders in 
every area of operations with honesty, 
fairness, openness, engagement and 
respect, and to conducting all business 
ethically and safely. The Group will only 
work with parties that share these values.

Our Code of Business Conduct and Ethics 
(“our Code”) sets out our expectations for 
how we do business, clarifying our 
commitments to ethical, social and 
environmental performance. Our CR 
policies support our Code. 

Structure of CR/ 
HSES Management System

1. Code of Business Ethics

2. Key CR policies

Health, Safety and Environment Policy

Social Responsibility Policy

Security Policy

Human Rights Policy

Biodiversity and Conservation Policy

Prevention of Modern Slavery and Human 
Trafficking Policy

3.  Standards, procedures and  

guidance support the policies

See https://www.pharos.energy/
responsibility/policy-statements/ for  
the full text of the current versions of  
each of these CR policies.

Stakeholder groups and CR topics 

Stakeholder group

Local communities 

How we engage with them  
and understand any concerns

Key areas of concern  
for stakeholder groups

Environmental and social impact 
assessments and grievance  
mechanisms at project level

•  Community investment
•  Effluents and waste management
•  Biodiversity
•  Transparency

National and host governments 

Regular dialogue

Employees and contractors 

Shareholders

Regular dialogue and  
grievance mechanisms 

Regular dialogue 

International community 

Responding to inquiries  
and media scanning 

•  Payments to governments
•  Local content
•  Environmental management
•  Health and safety 

•  Local capacity building
•   Contractor management

•   HSES Management System
•  Preventing corruption
•  Health and safety
•  Climate risk/energy transition

•   Preventing corruption
•  Human rights
•  New country entry
•  Climate risk/energy transition
•  GHG emissions

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019Issues linked to business risk  
and stakeholder interest in 2019

Business 
•  Climate change risk
•  Energy transition 
•  Business partners and influence
•  New country entry 
•  HSES management system
•  Contractor management

Ethics 
•  Preventing corruption
•  Payments to host governments 
•  Transparency

People
•  Occupational health and safety
•   Major accident prevention
•  Equal opportunities 
•  Local capacity building
•  Training and development

Environment
•  GHG emissions
•  Effluents and waste 
•  Biodiversity

ESG materiality screening
As part of Pharos commitment to  
continual improvement, a review of material 
ESG factors relevant to the oil and gas 
sector was carried out in early 2020.  
The purpose of the review was to calibrate 
our existing position and ensure that any 
new and material issues of importance to 
the energy sector are captured.

This year, and to provide a basis for 
strategy formulation, Pharos reviewed 
international guidance and non-financial 
standards published by the Global 
Reporting Initiative (GRI), the UN 
Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), 
frameworks issued by IPIECA, the IFC’s 
Performance Standards and the 
Sustainability Accounting Standards  
Board (SASB).

The results of the work will be discussed 
internally and used to form opinion, 
recognise best practice and provide clear 
direction on our ESG strategy in 2020.

Our approach on environmental and social 
reporting in 2019 has taken into account 
the current guidance “Oil and Gas Industry 
Guidance on Voluntary Sustainability 
Reporting (3rd edition, published 
September 2015)” issued by IPIECA, the 
global not-for-profit oil and gas industry 
association for environmental and social 
issues, in partnership with the American 
Petroleum Institute and the International 
Association of Oil and Gas Producers.  
In 2020 we are reviewing best practice to 
further guide our reporting. We include 
data for where we have operational control 
and also report on the jointly operated 
companies.

Dr Mike Watts  
Managing Director

Society 
•  Human Rights, Modern  

Slavery and Human Trafficking 

•  Community investment 
•  Local content

Our Corporate Standards, Procedures and 
Guidelines support the policies. Project 
specific Operational Plans, Programmes 
and Procedures provide the specifics of 
how things are done within each project. 

The Pharos Health, Safety, Environmental 
and Social Responsibility Management 
System (“HSES MS”) describes the Group’s 
internal processes to manage risks and is 
consistent with the requirements of 
internationally recognised standards (ISO 
14001, ISO 45001) and aligned with the 
World Bank’s International Finance 
Corporation (“IFC”) Environmental and 
Social Performance Standards.

The Chief Executive Officer is accountable 
to the Board for implementation of CR 
policies and Health, Safety, Environmental 
and Social (“HSES”) performance. The 
Board and the Audit and Risk Committee 
oversee the adequacy and effectiveness of 
our policies, standards and management 
system for HSES. The ESG Committee has 
responsibility, inter alia, for defining the 
Group’s strategy related to ESG matters, 
reviewing the Group’s ESG policies, 
programmes and initiatives and, more 
generally, has oversight of the Group’s 
management of ESG matters. 

CR objectives are defined annually and 
reviewed quarterly in relation to: our 
business; our ethics; our people; 
environment and society. 

Stakeholder engagement 
In determining our CR strategy, we 
consider issues that are important to  
the successful delivery of our corporate 
objectives and the matters that are 
important to our stakeholders. Our 
Communication and Stakeholder Guidance 
sets out the controls and arrangements  
for effective, timely and transparent 
processes. We receive feedback from 
stakeholders through a range of formal  
and informal processes. This takes place  
at a project and at a corporate level. 

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CORPORATE RESPONSIBILITY CONTINUED

Business

Our objective is to provide responsible 
and sustainable development. In 2019, 
we continued on the path set in 2018 
and focused on key issues in this  
area including those related to: global 
climate risk and energy transition; 
business partners and influence;  
new country entry; our HSES 
Management System and contractor 
management.

100%

Potential new investments 
screened for CR issues using new 
country procedure in 2019

Climate risk and global energy transition
Climate change is considered a principal 
risk to Pharos and its business over the 
medium and long term, and this is 
discussed in more detail in the Risk 
Management Report on page 46. 

Global energy transition is a factor that 
impacts many of the Group’s principal risks 
including those associated with commodity 
price, reserves, operations, political, 
stakeholder and reputational risks. We 
recognise that a global transition to a lower 
carbon intensity economy in response to 
climate change could result in reduced 
demand, lower oil prices and increased 
operating cost, capital cost, regulation  
and taxation. Our overall risk management 
integrates climate change and carbon 
related risks. Established management 
processes include any physical risks 
associated with climate change. 

At the same time, we also recognise that 
energy demand is forecast to grow and 
that oil and gas will continue to be an 
important component of the global  
energy mix over many future decades. 
This will be essential for sustainable 
economic development, especially in  
the countries where we operate. 

In October 2019, Pharos, Cairn Energy plc 
and Israel’s Ratio Oil Exploration were 
awarded eight licences offshore Israel,  
a region of prolific gas discoveries. This 
complements our current portfolio 
geographically and diversifies from our 
mainly oil producing assets.

We report transparently and participate in 
the Carbon Disclosure Project (“CDP”).  
Our greenhouse gas emissions (“GHG”)  
are reported in the Environment section  
on page 67.

Pharos supports the recommendations of 
the Task Force on Climate-related Financial 
Disclosures (TCFD) and we are studying 
how we can meet these disclosures. 

Pharos is committed to implementing the 
TCFD’s recommendations and a working 
group consisting of personnel from head 
office and the respective business units is 
now set up, supported by a specialist 
consultancy to achieve this.

Business partners and influence 
Relationships with business partners, host 
governments and local communities where 
we operate are critical for our business. 
Our Code sets out our commitment to 
doing business honestly and ethically and 
to complying with all applicable laws and 
regulations. It sets out our expectations to 
take steps to only do business with others 
who share our values. 

Our ability to influence our business 
partners depends on our degree of 
ownership and operatorship. Where we are 
the designated operator, we fully apply the 
Pharos HSES MS. Where we are a joint 
operating partner, we seek to influence and 
ensure alignment with our systems. Where 
we have a minority interest, we seek to 
make our views heard and ensure that 
minimum standards are met in accordance 
with our commitment to the IFC 
Performance Standards.

60

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019Relationships with business partners, host 
governments and local communities where 
we operate are critical for our business. 
Dr Mike Watts 
Managing Director

New country entry
For Pharos, any new business, investment 
or venture must identify, analyse, assess, 
address and monitor ESG related issues 
and risks (alongside commercial, legal, 
technical and political constraints). 

Our new country entry procedure sets  
out our process for risk screening and due 
diligence. The process applies to: new 
country entry; transactions (acquisitions, 
divestment); expansion of existing projects; 
and operated and non-operated JV farm-ins.

In 2019, together with Cairn Energy plc and 
Israel’s Ratio Oil Exploration, we were 
successful in our bid for eight licences in 
the second offshore bid round in Israel. 
Following detailed analysis and input from 
the Group’s advisers and lending banks, the 
Committee reviewed and approved the 
proposal to enter Israel with reputable 
partners in order to enable the Company 
to apply successfully for eight exploration 
licences. Amongst a range of factors, the 
proposal also took into consideration the 

country’s commitments to a range of 
international good practice regulations 
including adherence to Anti-Slavery and 
Human Rights laws. 

On 2 April 2019, Pharos completed the 
transaction to acquire the El Fayum 
Concession, and has a 100% working 
interest in the onshore concession located 
in the Western Desert, Egypt, operated in 
conjunction with the Egyptian state oil and 
gas company, EGPC, through the 50/50 
Joint Operating Company Petrosilah. 
Following this acquisition, we conducted an 
HSES due-diligence review of the facilities 
of the El Fayum Concession and gap 
analysis of the Merlon / Petrosilah Health, 
Safety, Environmental and Social 
Responsibility (HSES) Management System 
against the Pharos Energy HSES 
Management System. This allowed us to 
build on the Red Flag report undertaken 
prior to the acquisition, which gave us an 
initial snapshot on which to build. 

The audit and gap analysis allowed us to 
develop a work programme to align local 
practices with Pharos’ expectations.

Following last year’s detailed analysis and 
input from the Group’s advisers and lending 
banks, the Committee reviewed and 
approved the proposal to invest in Egypt in 
order to enable the Company to proceed 
with the acquisition of Merlon. This included 
the North Beni Suef Concession 
agreement which Pharos entered into on 
24 December 2019.

Following the acquisitions completed in 
2019, we will carry out an audit of Pharos’s 
new country entry procedure in 2020 and 
improve our processes based on the 
outcome.

Vietnam interests and operations

Degree  
of influence 

High 

Blocks 

Country 

Pharos  
ownership

Blocks 125 & 126

Vietnam

70%

Pharos  
role

Operator 

Moderate 

Block 16-1

Vietnam

30.5% 

Moderate 

Block 9-2

Vietnam

25%

Joint operating partner 
(in Hoang Long Joint 
Operating Company) 

Joint operating partner 
(in Hoan Vu Joint 
Operating Company) 

2019  
activity

Offshore seismic survey

Field Development –  
drilling and completing 
production wells.  
Production of oil and gas

Production of oil and gas

Target HSES 
outcome 

Full application 
of the HSES MS

Influence to bring 
alignment to the 
Pharos HSES MS

New interests acquired in 2019 

Degree  
of influence 

Moderate 

Moderate 

Low 

Blocks 

El Fayum 
Concession

Country 

Egypt 

Pharos  
ownership

42.6%

Pharos  
role

2019  
activity

Joint operating partner  
(in Petrosilah)

Production of oil and gas

North Beni Suef 
Concession

Egypt 

100%

Joint operating partner  
(in Petrosilah)

Production of oil and gas

Israel 

33.33%

Non-operator 

No field activity

Licences 
39,40,47,48 
(Zone A) and 
45,46,52,53 
(Zone C)

Target HSES 
outcome 

Influence to bring 
alignment to the 
Pharos HSES MS

Influence to bring 
alignment to the 
Pharos HSES MS

Ensure minimum 
standards during 
ownership

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100%

New suppliers screened in 
accordance with our contractor 
management procedure in 2019

HSES Management System 
We undertake a range of activities to 
continuously improve our HSES MS to 
ensure that the Company’s policy 
commitments are applied. We may work  
in countries that have different standards 
and we review any potential gaps to  
ensure adherence to our policies in 
dialogue with our business partners. 
Routine monitoring is undertaken to  
assess and improve performance and 
periodic audits are conducted. 

In 2019 we updated our Corporate HSES 
MS to reflect our organisational changes. 
This has been the opportunity to update 
and streamline our procedures in a set  
of corporate standards that define the 
company expected practices within the 
whole organisation.

The new standards have been shared 
across the organisation and employees  
and contractors will be trained as  
required at country level in 2020. 

In 2019, a total of 292 HSES training 
sessions took place across Vietnam and 
Egypt throughout the year.

In January 2019, the PetroSilah JV  
obtained ISO 14001 (Environmental) 
certification in Egypt. 

Key Performance Indicators

KPI

Target 2019 2018 2017 2016

HSES regulatory 
non-compliances

Zero

01

0

0

0

1   Although three regulatory non-compliances were 
reported in our Egyptian assets in 2019, these 
occurred in January, prior to the completion  
of our acquisition. 

Contractor management
Contractors are used throughout all 
aspects of our business. Our Contractor 
Management Procedure sets out 
requirements through all stages from 
selection through to management and 
service delivery. 

In HSES critical activities, bridging 
documents are put in place to ensure 
Pharos and contractor alignment with our 
requirements. 

In 2019 we developed an on-Boarding 
Policy to further enhance our due diligence 
process and ensured its requirements 
aligned with our revised contractor and 
supply chain management procedures. 

Hours worked  
in Vietnam and  
Egypt assets

Company staff: 651,488 

Contractors: 1,702,631

Percentage of total

28%

72%

Overall objective
To provide responsible and sustainable development

2019 Objectives

2019 Outcomes

2020 Objectives

Conduct a programme of HSES training for 
employees and contractors. 

Regular HSES training sessions organised  
throughout the year.

Each asset to develop their own  
HSES training programme.

Conduct a gap analysis of Merlon HSES MS 
against Pharos Energy HSES MS requirements.

A gap analysis and operational audit of  
Pharos El Fayum was conducted with a set of 
recommendations formulated.

Confirm that recommendations from gap 
analysis of Merlon HSES MS against Pharos 
HSES MS requirements have been closed.

Complete Corporate HSES audit programme 
according to the 2019 Audit plan.

Postponed to 2020. 

62

Confirm that recommendations from gap 
analysis of Joint Operated Company (JOC) 
Management system in Vietnam against Pharos 
HSES MS requirements have been closed.

Audit of New Entry procedure against 
acquisition of Merlon asset.

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019Ethics

Our objective is to conduct our business 
in an honest and ethical manner. In 2019, 
key issues in this area included those 
related to: preventing corruption and 
payments to host governments.

Preventing corruption 
Pharos currently operates in Vietnam, 
which is allocated a low score on 
Transparency International’s most recently 
published Corruption Perception Index 
(“CPI”), and is ranked number 96 out of 180 
countries in the 2019 CPI. Egypt is ranked 
at 106 on the same CPI. We recognise that, 
with both areas of operation having a 
reputation for a lack of transparency and 
relatively high risk of corruption, it is vital 
that the Group’s policies, procedures and 
working practices are fit for purpose. 
Pharos maintains internal control systems 
to guide and ensure that our ethical 
business standards for relationships with 
others are achieved. The Audit and Risk 
Committee and the Board have carried out 
a review of the effectiveness the Group’s 
risk management and internal control 
systems, see the Audit and Risk report 
page 90. Bribery is prohibited throughout 
the organisation, both by our employees 
and by those performing work on our 
behalf. The Code of Business Conduct and 
Ethics supports the implementation across 
the organisation. Our Anti-Bribery and 
Corruption (“ABC”) programme is designed 

to prevent corruption and ensure systems 
are in place to detect, remediate and learn 
from any potential violations. This includes 
due diligence on new vendors, annual 
training for all personnel, requisite 
compliance declarations from all 
associated persons, Gifts and Hospitality 
declaration and comprehensive 
‘whistleblowing’ arrangements. 

In 2019, Pharos entered Israel, where there 
have been no operational activities to date. 
Israel ranks at 35 on the CPI, indicating a 
lower risk of corruption. In September 2019, 
our Board approved a revised Code of 
Business Conduct and Ethics adopted 
across the whole of the Group. The revision 
reflected increased external focus on  
such matters.

Our Whistleblowing Policy and Procedure 
ensures that employees are protected 
from possible reprisals when raising 
concerns in the public interest. In addition 
to internal reporting channels, we have a 
confidential ethics hotline provided by 
Expolink with numbers displayed in local 
offices available 24 hours a day all year 
round. No further call was made to the 
Expolink hotline, in addition to the one 
logged early 2019 and already reported in 
our 2018 annual report. 

100%

Employees and relevant contractors have 
undertaken anti-bribery and corruption 
training by end of January 2020

Payments to host governments 
Wealth generated by natural resources 
plays an important part in the growth and 
development of countries in which we 
operate. Revenues to governments 
become payable by the Group due to oil 
production entitlements, taxes, royalties, 
licence fees and infrastructure 
improvements. 

During 2019, the total payments to 
governments for the Group amounted to 
$232.7m (2018: $202.4m), of which $165.5m 
or 71% (2018: $196.5m or 97%) was related 
to the Vietnam producing licence areas, of 
which $113.5m (2018: $133.0m) was for 
indirect taxes based on production 
entitlement. Payments to government 
related to Egypt licence areas were $63.1m 
of which $46.4m relates to indirect taxes 
based on production entitlement. The 
breakdown of other contributions, including 
payroll taxes and other taxes is contained 
within the additional information on page 
159.

Our Code prohibits contributions to 
political parties, candidates or other 
political organisations.

Overall objective
To conduct our business in an honest and ethical manner

2019 Objectives

All personnel to complete the annual ABC 
programme including training, testing and 
self-declaration statement.

Review ABC programme and update  
as required.

2019 Outcomes

Completed.

2020 Objectives

•  All personnel to complete the annual ABC 
programme including training, testing and 
self-declaration statement

The ABC programme has been updated.

•  Continue to review ABC programme and 

update as required

Implement Modern Slavery Prevention  
programme.

The annual statement on Modern Slavery  
has been published on the Pharos website.

Update and republish the Modern Slavery 
annual statement.

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People

Our objective is to ensure the health, 
safety, security and welfare of our 
employees and those with whom we  
work and to ensure that we have a 
workforce that is performing at its best. 
Our Health, Safety and Environment 
Policy and Code of Business Conduct  
and Ethics commit us to protecting the 
health and safety of our workforce,  
to providing a workplace free of 
discrimination where diversity is 
valued and to ensure that we consult  
and engage with our employees.

We value the contribution made by all 
employees and strive to ensure that we 
have training and development 
opportunities for everyone.

Key issues for us in 2019 included: 
occupational health and safety; major 
accident prevention; strengthening of 
Senior Management Team; increasing 
diversity and local capacity building.

Occupational health and safety 
Safety is the highest priority in our business 
and we are committed to operating safely 
and responsibly at all times and to providing 
a safe and healthy working environment for 
staff and contractors. Following from our 
Health, Safety and Environment Policy and 
Code of Business Conduct and Ethics, our 
HSES MS provides the framework for our 
approach and is implemented at each stage 
of a project supported by Occupational 
Health and Safety Guidance and Standard 
Operating Procedures. While Pharos had no 
field activity in 2019 in which we were the 
operator, we continued to work with our 
partners in Vietnam where the Hoang Long 
and Hoan Vu Joint Operating Companies 
(“HLHVJOC”) continued to maintain a high 
level of safety. We have worked to build and 
contribute to improvements in the safety 
culture in Vietnam and we are proud of that 
record of achievement. HSES training, drills, 
workshops and inspections are conducted 
on an annual basis to ensure that the zero 
target is maintained. 

We are able to share our practices and 
lessons learned with others in the industry 

64

Outstanding safety record

KPI

Target

Pharos

IOGP** 

Pharos

IOGP*

Pharos

2019

2018

Lost Time Injury (“LTI”) 
Frequency Rate 

Fatal Accident 
Frequency Rate 

Total Recordable 
Injury Rate*** 

Million-man hours worked 

Zero 

Zero 

0 

0

 0.42

2.35

0

0

0.42

1.29

0.26

1.01

0.99

0

0

–

 1.42

International Association of Oil and Gas Producers (“IOGP”) Benchmark. 

* 
**  Not yet available for 2019. 
*** TRIR = TRI x 1,000,000/total man-hours. 

Note that the significant decrease of Total Recordable Injury Rate for 2019 is linked to a sharp increase  
of man-hours, which nearly doubled, whilst the number of recordable injuries remained stable at 1.

2017

IOGP 

0.27

1.10

0.96

and are contributing to further capacity 
building. In January 2019, the PetroSilah JV, 
achieved ISO 45001 certification in Egupt. 

In Egypt, a road tanker truck belonging to 
El-Nada Petroleum took a dangerous curve 
without reducing his truck speed. The truck 
turned over colliding with concrete barriers 
placed on the side of the road. This resulted 
in a an environmental spill (described on 
page 69). The driver also suffered some 
bruises and was taken to El-Fayum public 
hospital where he received the necessary 
medical care, allowing him to leave the 
hospital shortly after the incident.  

This incident occurred on a trucking route 
to the Tebeen pumping station, where 
produced crude oil has historically been 
trucked. One of the changes made since 
the completion of the acquisition is to the 
delivery point of El Fayum crude, which is 
now being made directly to the Suez Oil 
Processing Company (SOPC) refinery, 
although a longer distance, the new trucking 
transport route avoids built-up and 
residential areas and offers safer driving 
conditions due to fully tarmacked roads 
leading directly to the refinery.

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019Safety indicators (for both Pharos 
employees and contractors)

Indicator 

Lost Time Injury (“LTI”) 

Fatal Accidents

Medical Treatment Cases

First Aid Cases 

Number of Motor Vehicle Crashes

Roll-over

HSES Near Miss 

HSES Inspections

HSES Audits

HSES Toolbox Talks 

HSES Meetings 

Safety indicators

Indicator 

Emergency Response Drills 

Process Safety Events  
(Tier 1 or Tier 2)

Other events 

We value the contribution made by all employees 
and strive to ensure that we have training and 
development opportunities for everyone. 

Dr Mike Watts 
Managing Director

2019

0 

0

1

4

1

1

31 

755

1,216

5,245

958

2019

102

3

2 
(minor events)

Major accident prevention
Pharos has emergency response plans in 
place for all projects and assets. The plans 
are communicated to the workforce and 
response personnel receive training  
to ensure they are competent to carry  
out their emergency roles. This is 
supplemented by periodic refresher 
training. Drills and training exercises  
are carried out. On CNV, we had 
48 Emergency Response Drills and 39 
HSES training sessions and on TGT we had 
54 Emergency Response Drills and 215 
HSES training sessions. We ensure asset 
integrity and control operations in order to 
effectively manage all significant risks 
during all stages of the operations.

We had five Process Safety Events in 2019. 
Two of these occurred in Vietnam. The first 
involved a crane boom making contact with 
and damaging a walkway. A port aft crane 
boom access walkway made contact with  
a port leg during cargo operation resulting 
in minor damage to the boom access 
walkway angle iron. The second incident 
involved a supply boat making contact with 
a crane headache ball as a result of sea 
swell. This resulted in slight material 
damage to the port forward crane system.

The three other process safety events 
occurred in Egypt. The first event involved 
a limited fire inside a warehouse at the main 
Silah-1 site which was contained with no 
injuries or significant material damage.  
The second event was a significant water 
leakage at the vertical emulsion treater’s 
burner at North East Tersa station resulting 
in the vertical emulsion treater taken  
offline. The third event involved the loss  
of pressure containment when a 
high-pressure hose disconnected under 
pressure, breaking and hitting the driller 
cabin through the steel guard and driller 
cabin glass. This resulted in three medical 
treatment cases.

All incidents were investigated and lessons 
learned as appropriate. Actions to prevent 
recurrence included replacement and 
upgrade of equipment (for example 
replacement of the safety glass of the 
driller cabin at the N.Silah –Deep 1x station 
by 6 cm thickness anti-impact Glass), 
additional inspections and maintenance 
programmes as well as awareness sessions 
with workers.

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Average corporate employees

Non-Executive Directors

2019

2018

2017

2016

4   1

05

05

17

Executive Directors

2019

2018

2017

2016

2 1

12

12

12

Senior Management

4

2019

2018

2

2

2

2017

12

2016

01

Other employees

2019

2018

2017

2016

7

6

5

5

Male

Female

11

10

8

8

Diversity and Inclusion 
Our Code and Policies commit us  
to providing a workplace free of 
discrimination where all employees can 
fulfil their potential based on merit and 
ability. We value a diverse workforce. 

We are committed to providing a fully 
inclusive workplace, which ensures we 
recruit and retain the highest calibre 
candidates while providing the right 
development opportunities to ensure 
existing staff have rewarding careers.

Our corporate head office in London  
has 30 staff and we are very proud of  
the number of women we have in the 
London office, which is 60% and five out  
of six Group Heads of Function posts 
are filled by women.

In 2019 we had a team of over 30 
employees based in Egypt and a team  
of three in Vietnam. Our size of direct 
employees facilitates daily direct 
interaction and multidisciplinary dialogue 
amongst personnel and Executive 
Directors.

In Egypt, we have established a gender 
neutral recruitment process and, wherever 
possible, are ensuring that any vacancy is 
filled by an Egyptian national. We recruit 
directly from the local universities and 
surrounding villages. A training levy is  
also paid to support the training and 
development of industry personnel in 
Egypt. We have also started the work to 
establish a KPI based staff performance 
appraisal scheme.

Local capability building 
We are committed to providing meaningful 
opportunities for technical cooperation, 
training and capacity building in host 
countries. 

In Vietnam, as part of the HLHVJOC, we 
contribute to local capability building. Out 
of 110 people, only seven are expatriate 
staff member. In addition, every position 
that is held by an expatriate staff has a 
Vietnamese staff member as a deputy or 
as the manager. A training levy of $150,000 
for each JOC goes into a fund which is 
ringfenced to support the development  
of future talent in Vietnam in the industry. 
HLHVJOC also invests in staff development 
and training. 

In Egypt, as part of the Concession 
Agreements of El Fayum and North Beni 
Suef, the Company commits to a total of 
$200,000 split equally between the  
two Concessions for training and 
development of employees.

Overall objective
To ensure the health, safety, security and welfare of our employees and those with whom we work.

2019 Objectives

Conduct a continuing programme of  
HSES training for employees and contractors.

2019 Outcomes

On target

2020 Objectives

Each asset to develop their own  
HSES training programme.

Conduct an Employee Engagement Survey.

66

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Environment

We recognise the potential impacts of  
our business on the environment. Our 
Health, Safety and Environment Policy 
sets out our commitment to conduct  
all business activities in a responsible 
manner. In setting our CR priorities, our 
objective is to protect the environment 
and conserve biodiversity. In 2019, key 
issues in this area included those related 
to: Greenhouse gas emissions; effluents 
and waste, and biodiversity.

Greenhouse gas emissions (“GHG”)
GHGs associated with energy use and with 
flaring are a key area of potential impact.

In 2019, we continued to monitor our 
emissions and disclose them in accordance 
with industry requirements and standards 
and participated in the Carbon Disclosure 
Project (“CDP”). 

GHG reported
Pharos counts emissions of the 
greenhouse gases (GHG) carbon dioxide 
(CO2), methane (CH4) and nitrous oxide 
(N2O), all of which are produced during 
consumption. For simplicity, the results of 
all three have been reported as a single 
parameter – carbon dioxide equivalent 
(CO2e). The other three greenhouse gases 
categorised under Section 92 of the UK 
Climate Change Act, hydrofluorocarbons 
(HFC), perfluorocarbons (PFC) and sulphur 
hexafluoride (SF₆), are not closely 
associated with the petroleum industry. 
The total emission of these gases is 
therefore expected to be small and has  
not been calculated. 

Emissions scope
Reported Scope 1 direct emissions 
comprise direct GHG emissions resulting 
from equipment or other sources owned 
(partly or wholly) and/or operated by the 
Company (for example, gas flaring 
operations and fuel gas/diesel use to 
generate power or for vehicle use). 
Reported Scope 2 indirect emissions 
comprise those arising from purchased 
energy already transformed into electricity, 
heat or steam generation. For Pharos 
activities, Scope 2 emissions comprise 
electricity supplied by the national grid in 
the UK, in our Egypt office and in Ho Chi 
Minh City (Vietnam). No Scope 3 emissions 
(indirect emissions created in the value 
chain) are reported. 

Reporting boundary
Pharos reports GHG emissions from its 
operated projects, joint operated projects 
and associated corporate/administrative 
activities on an overall and equity share 
basis. The former is the total emissions 
generated by those projects. The latter is 
calculated pro-rata to Pharos ownership 
and interest (equity share). 

Due to the significant changes in Pharos’ 
operational activities and reporting 
boundary in 2019, 2019 has formed a new 
base year against which emission trends 
over time will be reported.

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The Company is looking at ways it can reduce  
GHG emissions across its operations. 

Dr Mike Watts 
Managing Director

CO2 e is based on the 100-year Global 
Warming Potential of CO2, CH4, and N2O 
emitted. Factors used are those of the 
2007 IPCC Fourth Assessment Report 
(AR4) for consistency with the BEIS factors 
for corporate reporting in the UK.

In 2019 we have again used the normalised 
figure to be tonnes of GHG per 1,000 
tonnes of oil produced by equity share to 
align with the International Association of 
Oil and Gas Producers (“IOGP”) 
benchmarks. 

Key sources of our emissions are from the 
associated gas used as fuel to generate 
power on our offshore production sites and 
flared in Vietnam and likewise for our 
onshore production in Egypt. In 2019, gas 
fuel and gas flaring in TGT remain the 
largest single contributor to Pharos  
total emissions.

Methodology
Pharos applies the expectations set by the 
ISO 14064-1 standards in terms of 
Relevance, Completeness, Consistency, 
Transparency and Accuracy which are 
endorsed by IPIECA, the Greenhouse Gas 
Protocol Initiative and Part 7  
of The Companies Act 2006 (Strategic 
Report and Directors’ Report) Regulations 
2013. Emission factors for GHG calculations 
were taken from UK Government GHG 
Conversion Factors for Company 
Reporting (BEIS, 2019) and EEMS, 2008, 
Atmospheric Emissions Calculations;  
for the calculation of associated gas 
consumed as fuel and flared in Vietnam,  
the emission factors were calculated based 
on the carbon content of gas analysed at 
the TGT Field and CNV Field by the 
Vietnam Petroleum Institute in 2019, and for 
the calculation of gas consumed and flared 
in Egypt, the emissions factors were 
calculated based on the carbon content of 
gas analysed at the North Silah Deep, 
North East Tersa, South Silah and Silah 
Base Separators (EPRI Central Analytical 
Labs, 2018).

Tonnes (t) of CO2e equivalent for 2019 Operations

Country

Reported operations

Operational phase

UK

Israel

Egypt

Office

Office

Administration (office – electricity usage)

No activity

Administration support for exploration

Vietnam 
Cuu Long Basin 
(offshore)

El Fayum Concession

Production

Field development

Office

Administration (electricity usage)

Blocks 125 & 126

Seismic exploration

Block 9-2 – Ca Ngu Vang 
(CNV) field

Block 16-1 – Te Giac Trang 
(TGT) field

Production

Field development

Production

Field development

Total

As stated above, due to organisational 
boundary changes in 2019 (Pharos’ exit 
from offshore Congo and entry into Egypt), 
the total CO2e emissions for 2019 are not 
directly comparable to the level of CO2e 
emissions from 2018. 2019 is therefore 
being defined as a new base year 
for Pharos.

The transaction to acquire the Egyptian 
assets completed on 2 April 2019. However, 
data from the field was collected in 1Q 2019 
and GHG emissions have been reported 
for the whole of 2019 calendar year to 
provide a full-year baseline and allow 
subsequent year on year comparison.

Activity data pertaining to GHG emissions 
by the HLHVJOC and Egypt is reported to 
Pharos. RPS Energy assisted with data 
collation and GHG emissions calculations. 
Verification was undertaken by a different 
division of RPS (RPS Planning and 
Environment) which has maintained 
appropriate independence from Pharos 
and RPS Energy during verification using its 
established approach to conflict of interest 
management. 

CO2e (t)
Based 
on equity
share1,2

12

–

60.71

30,096

2,770

1

2,542

8,317

0

94,873

3,812

Overall1

12

–

143

70,649

6,502

1

3,632

33,267

0

311,058

12,500

437,764

142,485

CO2e (t) per 1000 tonnes 
of oil produced
by equity share3

Per  
field

Per
country

–

–

–

–

–

–

275

275

–

96

345

–

–

–

285

–

1  Figures include rounding to the nearest whole number.
2  Under equity share, Pharos reports a share of the emissions from the partnerships pro-rata its ownership interest.
3   Normalised emission is calculated, per field, and at country level, based on equity share, and gross/net boepd produced in 2019 in the CNV  

and TGT fields as well as in El Fayum Concession.

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019refinery. Oil deliveries are now being  
made directly to the Suez Oil Processing 
Company (SOPC) refinery, although a 
longer distance, the new trucking transport 
route avoids built-up and residential areas 
and offers safer driving conditions due to 
fully tarmacked roads leading directly to 
the refinery. In August 2019 there was an  
oil leakage at the North East Tersa vertical 
emulsion treater’s burner (not operational  
at the time) via a crack in a fire tube. 
Approximately two barrels of oil were spilled 
around the emulsion treater and beneath  
the pipework. All oil was recovered and site 
clean-up carried out.

Water is extracted along with hydrocarbon 
reservoir fluids as part of normal production 
operations. In 2019 we generated 5.4 million 
cubic metres of produced water. In Vietnam, 
the produced water is cleaned by separating 
the hydrocarbon phase before discharging  
to the sea in line with national standards.  
In Egypt, our produced water is either sent 
to a water disposal well (70%) or outsourced 
to water treatment facilities (30%).

In Vietnam, waste is generated from 
offshore drilling including cuttings, used oil 
and other materials. We work to recycle  
as much non-hazardous waste as possible. 
We have a third-party contract for the 
disposal of hazardous waste, with a 
reporting system into the specific 
Vietnamese authorities for checking,  
audit, and approval. In Egypt, waste 
generated is segregated into hazardous and 
non-hazardous waste and disposed of in  
a licensed facility. Corrective actions were 
implemented to address the environmental 
non-conformance related to waste disposal 
as identified by a committee from the 
Egyptian Ministry of Environment which 
carried out an audit for the Silah 1-2 site.
Freshwater is used to support our 
operations. In 2019 this amounted to 
202,453 cubic metres. Our use of 
freshwater has increased significantly 
compared to 2018, due to the acquisition  
of onshore assets in Egypt. 

Approaches to reducing emissions
The compressor issue on the TGT FPSO  
is currently planned to be resolved  
in 1H 2020.

The Company is looking at ways it can 
reduce GHG emissions across its 
operations. One such initiative in Egypt 
includes the use of associated gas-powered 
electricity generators. The gas comes from 
the wells themselves and this replaces diesel 
usage on the sites. Phase One utilisation of 
these generators started in June 2019. 
Reductions in GHG emissions were 
achieved through the elimination of 730,000 
litres of diesel use per year and associated 
emissions. There was also a 30% reduction 
of flared gas at the North Silah Deep site. 

A Phase Two utilisation of associated 
gas-powered electricity generators is 
planned to reduce CO2e emissions by a 
further 2,330 tonnes. Phase Two is 
currently expected to start in May 2020. 
Satellite wellsite(s) solar power sources are 
under investigation.

GHG emissions and activity data
Energy use from grid electricity was 
335,873 kWh in 2019. 

In 2019, 39 tonnes of gas were flared for 
every 1,000 tonnes of total saleable 
hydrocarbon production on a gross  
basis (not equity share adjusted).  

This is an increase from 29 tonnes in  
2018 that is due partly to the change in 
organisational boundary (with the 
introduction of the Egypt El Fayum 
Concession) and partly to change in the 
measured gas composition in Vietnam 
(including density).

Pharos conducted a new Energy Saving 
Opportunities Scheme (“ESOS”) Audit in 
their London office in compliance with the 
UK ESOS Regulations 2014. 

Effluents and waste 
In 2019 we maintained our record of no spills 
into the environment in Vietnam. In Egypt, in 
June 2019, a road tanker truck belonging to 
El-Nada Petroleum turned over colliding with 
concrete barriers placed on the side of the 
road. This resulted in a rupture of the truck 
tank and the spillage of the cargo fluid on 
the road (347 barrels of fluid containing 134 
barrels net oil ) and to the drainage canal 
parallel to the road. Fields staff vacuumed 
the spill by vacuum truck for three days and 
transferred it to the Silah base for treatment 
and safe disposal. Since this incident  
the trucking route has been changed. The 
produced crude oil has historically been 
trucked to the Tebeen pumping station, 
from where it was piped to the Mostorod 
refinery, north of Cairo. One of the changes 
made since the acquisition completed is to 
the delivery point of El Fayum crude, 
prompted by the upgrade of the Mostorod 

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Biodiversity 
Our Biodiversity and Conservation Policy 
commits us to meet the objectives of the 
Convention on Biological Diversity (1992). 
We identify whether a project is located in 
modified, natural or critical habitats, or a 
legally protected or internationally 
recognised area; and whether the project 
may potentially impact on, or be dependent 
on, ecosystems services over which Pharos 
has direct management control or 
significant influence. In Egypt, the El Fayum 
Concession borders the multiple-use 
management area and the natural 
protectorate area of Lake Qarun which 
includes important bird areas. It is adjacent 
to the Wadi El Rayan protected area which 
includes the Wadi Al-Hitan World Heritage 
Site. In Vietnam, Blocks 125 & 126 are 
approximately 50km offshore to the Nha 
Trang Bay Protected Area and the Thuy 
Trieu Marine Protected Area. As per our 
policy, Pharos does not operate in any 
UNESCO designated World Heritage Site 
and ensures that activities in buffer zones 
around these sites do not jeopardise the 
Outstanding Universal Value of these sites. 

Non-Financial KPIs (HSES)

KPI

Oil spills* 

*Number of spills reported.

KPI

Target

0

Target

Solid non-hazardous waste produced (tonnes) 

Set per project 

Percentage of non-hazardous waste reused or recycled

Set per project

Solid hazardous waste (tonnes)

Set per project

Percentage of hazardous waste reused or recycled 

Set per project

2019

2

2018

0

2017

0

2019

104

15

3,112

<1

2018

102

20

96

10

2017

148

246

The notable increase in hazardous waste production compared to 2018 is due to the acquisition of the Egyptian 
asset, which alone produced 3,066 tonnes as a result of cleaning most of the water pits, which produced a higher 
amount of hydrocarbon contaminated soil. Pharos changed the water drain pit system to a closed drain system 
using steel tanks to enhance our environmental performance.

335,873kWh

Energy use from grid electricity 

Comprehensive Environmental and Social 
Impact Assessments (“ESIAs”) are 
undertaken for any new project prior to any 
operational activities using international 
standards and in consultation with local 
stakeholders. We are committed to 
developing site-specific biodiversity action 
plans (“BAPs”) in the event that operational 
sites are within sensitive areas, incorporating 
country-specific strategies and action plans 
and working in association with external 
advisers to ensure that best practice 
conservation priorities are achieved.

Overall objective
To protect the environment and conserve biodiversity

2019 Objectives

Implementation of the Biodiversity and 
Conservation Policy for the permitting  
of the Vietnam offshore seismic EIA.

Review of the Merlon EIA against  
Pharos standards ahead of field activities.

ESOS Compliance assessment

Implementation of the New Entry Procedure  
when a new project arises, including an 
assessment of risk of impact on the environment.

2019 Outcomes

On target

On target

On target

On target

Solving of TGT compressor issues to reduce  
GHG emissions to base levels or under.

Postponed

70

2020 Objectives

Carry out EIA in line with Pharos internal 
standards as well as country operations 
requirements prior to any activity. 

–

–

Implementation of the new country entry 
procedure prior to any acquisition.

Solving of TGT compressor issues to reduce 
GHG emissions to base levels or under.

Initiate the process to become TCFD compliant.

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019Society

Our Social Responsibility and Human 
Rights Policies set our requirements for 
social responsibility, community engage- 
ment and human rights. In 2019, key 
issues in this area included: human rights; 
community investment; and local content.

Human rights 
Pharos’ Human Rights Policy was reviewied 
and signed by the Board in October 2019, 
and a copy is available on the Company’s 
website at https://www.pharos.energy/
responsibility/policy-statements/. The 
policy commits Pharos to conducting its 
business in accordance with the 
fundamental principles of human rights set 
out in the Universal Declaration of Human 
Rights and reflects the terms of both the 
OECD Guidelines for Multinational 
Enterprises and the United Nations Guiding 
Principles on Business and Human Rights. 
Together with our Security Policy, it sets 
out our commitments to align with the 
Voluntary Principles on Security and 
Human Rights. We respect indigenous 
rights and cultures of the communities 
where we operate. 

Our human rights due diligence includes 
processes to address, monitor and 
communicate actual or potential impacts. In 
2019, we undertook a Human Rights Review 
and developed an Action Plan for future 
operations in our newly acquired Israeli 
offshore licences. 

The review acknowledged the provision of 
safe and healthy working facilities for all 
workers, the requirement to engage with 
stakeholders to understand any local 
concerns as well as security practices and 
to put in place any mitigation strategies. 
Community Feedback Mechanisms are 
required in all our projects. We take steps 
to ensure our agents, contractors and 
suppliers are aware of and comply with our 
policies and seek to use our influence with 
joint venture partners. 

A similar Human Rights review and action 
plan had been carried out previously for 
Vietnam and all recommendations were 
implemented during the 2019 offshore 
acquisition survey. 

For Egypt, all our corporate policies 
including the Policy on Human Rights have 
been translated into Arabic for 
dissemination locally. 

In accordance with the UK Modern Slavery 
Act, Pharos reports annually on the steps it 
has taken to mitigate the risk of modern 
slavery occurring in any part of its 
business. Pharos’ Statement on Modern 
Slavery for 2019 is available on the 
Company’s website at https://www.pharos.
energy/modern-slavery-act/. 

In early 2020, Pharos, through the Ministry 
of Foreign Affairs of Vietnam, contributed 
towards the repatriation cost of the 
Vietnamese victims involved in a tragic 
event that occurred in Essex, UK.

Community and social investment 
We understand that our success is reliant 
upon building strong relationships and 
being welcomed as a responsible partner in 
our host communities. We invest in social 
projects for the long-term benefit. 

In 2019, our social investment in Vietnam 
was through the HLHVJOC Charitable 
Donation Programme which we contribute 
into as set out in our licence terms. In 
addition to the training levy, a further 
$245,379 was invested in 12 community 
and social projects which included 
education and healthcare support via the 
HLHVJOC Charitable Donation 
Programme.

In Egypt, we re-routed the Suez refinery- 
bound road tankers to avoid local villages 
and are in the process of assessing where 
we can make the most valuable 
contribution to long-term social projects, 
both at the local level and more widely.

Local capacity
We support local capacity building during 
the exploration or development phases  
of a project to ensure a positive imprint and 
legacy. All our licence agreements include a 
high degree of local content, which commits 
us to hire locally where possible and provide 
training to develop new skills. Our policy 
commits us to provide meaningful 
opportunities for technical co-operation, 
training and capacity building within any 
host country in which we operate.

Community projects 2019 via the HLHVJOC Donation Programme

Education
•  Hoang Van Thu High School
•  Saigon Children’s Charity
•  Hanoi Private School for the Hearing-Impaired
•  Nhan Dao commune kindergarten
•  Light Your Hope scholarship fund
•  Bicycle project in Ben Tre & Tra Vinh

Healthcare
•  Financial support for treatments for children 

with autism and similar symptoms at  
Binh Minh Social Assistance Centre and  
Minh Anh Specialised Education Centre

•  Medical equipment support for Medical Clinic 

of Thanh Giang Commune, Nghe An 

$145,783

$81,282

Rural livelihoods
•  Donation to the Red Cross of Ward 11,  

Phu Nhuan district to support low income 
families on Lunar New Year 2019

•  Charitable activities by Pharos and JOC’s staff 
to support flood victims in Na Meo commune, 
Thanh Hoa province

Other charitable projects
•  Green Summer campaign with Ho Chi Minh 

City Polytechnics University

$3,238

$15,076

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCE REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONCORPORATE RESPONSIBILITY CONTINUED

CASE STUDY 

CASE STUDY 

Education support for students  
in Ben Tre and Tra Vinh 

Education support for  
Hoang Van Thu High School 

Hoang Van Thu High School for the Gifted 
was founded in 1947 and is located in Hoa 
Binh, a mountainous province which suffers 
from frequent heavy rain and flash floods. 
Due to the area’s severe weather conditions, 
numerous tables and chairs used by the 
pupils were damaged and unsafe to use. 
HLHVJOC has donated $23,605 to the 
school to buy and replace 400 sets of  
tables and chairs for 1,410 students in 45 
classrooms. This is part of our ongoing 
support project since 2018 to upgrade  
and support Hoang Van Thu High School 
and its students.

Chau Thanh and Cang Long are two 
poverty-stricken districts of Ben Tre  
and Tra Vinh Province. The area’s poor 
infrastructure as well the financial situations 
of many families means that a significant 
number of students cannot pursue an 
education. On the 10th anniversary of the 
cooperation with the Ho Chi Minh City 
Polytechnic University, HLHVJOC provided 
financial support to buy 20 bicycles for  
20 students from low-income families in 
Chau Thanh and Cang Long to go to school 
instead of having to walk for hours to school 
on dirt roads. This builds on previous work 
supported in 2018 between HLHVJOC  
and the Polytechnic University to improve 
their infrastructure, which transformed 
more than 500 metres of dirt roads into 
concrete roads as part of the Green 
Summer Campaign.

12Social projects supported 

in Vietnam through the HLHVJOC 
Donation Programme

Overall objective
To consult with and contribute into our host communities

2019 Objectives

2019 Outcomes

2020 Objectives

Conduct a programme of HSES training for employees and 
contractors.

Carry out human rights due diligence exercise for countries  
where we have a continued presence.

On target

On target

•  Each asset to develop their own HSES training 

programme

•  Carry out human rights due diligence exercise 

for countries where we have a continued 
presence and country manager to implement 
recommendations

On target

•  Honour social obligations under production 

Honour previously agreed financial commitments and continue  
social investment in local communities according to the project 
specific selection processes.

sharing agreements.

•  Set up education initiatives across Egypt, 

Vietnam and London

•  Review and implement recommendation from 
human rights due diligence report for Israel

Implement Human Rights Action Plan as required prior to seismic  
survey offshore Vietnam.

On target

Update and streamline new country entry procedure.

Postponed to 2020

•  Update and streamline new country entry 

procedure

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019Corporate 
Responsibility
Non-Financial 
Indicators

Hours worked (million) 

Lost Time Injury Frequency Rate (number of lost time injuries per million man-hours) 

Fatal Accident Frequency Rate (number of fatal accidents per hundred million man-hours)

Total Recordable Injury Rate (number of recordable injuries per million hours worked)
Total GHG emissions (tCO2e) by equity 
  Scope 1 total GHG emissions (tCO2e) by equity
  Scope 2 total GHG emissions (tCO2e) by equity
  Scope 3 total GHG emissions (tCO2e) by equity
Normalised emissions by production  
(tonnes of CO2e per 1,000 tonnes of oil produced by equity share) 
Total hydrocarbons flared (Tonnes of hydrocarbons flared for every  
1,000 tonnes of production on a gross basis)

Energy use (grid electricity kWh)

Non-hazardous waste (tonnes)

Hazardous waste (tonnes)

Percentage non-hazardous waste recycled 

Percentage hazardous waste recycled

Oil and chemical spills (>100 litres) 

Oil in produced water content (Vietnam Blocks 16-1/9-2; Egypt)

Freshwater use (cubic metres) 

HSES regulatory non-compliance 

Community investment spend ($)

2019

2.35

0

0

0.42

142,485

142,410

75

283

39.04

335,873

103.53

3,112.38

15.05

0.12

2

27.79

202,453

3

2018

1.29

0

0

0.42

103,311

103,284

27

Not measured

278

29

100,638

102.08

95.89

19.52

9.97

0

31.36

23,209

0

2017

1.42

0

0

92,057

92,025

33

207

147.95

245.81

0

140

0

245,379

209,408

201,582

Note: Pharos assets in 2019 were different to its assets in 2018. On that basis, trends between 2018 and 2019 are not meaningful.

Approval of the Strategic Report
This report was approved by the Board of Directors on 10 March 2020 and is signed on its behalf by

Jann Brown 
Managing Director and 
Chief Financial Officer

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCE REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONCHAIR'S INTRODUCTION TO GOVERNANCE

Effective  
governance  
is a priority  
for Pharos

Dear  
shareholders

2019 was a year of progress and change  
for Pharos; we completed the acquisition  
of assets in Egypt, were successful in bid 
rounds in Israel with new partners, and 
further developed our position in Vietnam. 
We announced several changes to the 
composition of the Board and of course 
entered a new era for the business by 
changing our name to Pharos Energy plc. 
The Board has worked closely with the 
executive team to deliver against a 
stringent set of KPIs and to preserve 
shareholder value in an era of ongoing 
volatility affecting our sector.

A significant portion of the Board’s  
agenda was devoted to completion of the 
acquisition of the assets in Egypt, their 
integration into the management structures 
and systems in place across the Group  
and the development of plans to accelerate 
the value in the assets acquired. 

Our commitment to the MENA region was 
also recognised in the success of our bids 
for the offshore Israel eight licences with 
our partners, Cairn Energy plc and Ratio  
Oil Exploration Limited Partnership.

During the year, the Board has devoted 
considerable time to supporting and 
challenging the executive team in assessing 
the Company’s strategic positioning  
and growth opportunities, portfolio 
management and capital allocation. The 
Board received regular detailed updates 
from the Executive team and other key 
members of staff and time was allocated to 
operational, ESG and corporate matters. 
This led to a further three Board meetings 
being convened in addition to the four 
regularly scheduled meetings.

In pursuit of the best interests of 
shareholders, the Non-Executive Directors 
(“NEDs”) brought constructive suggestions 
and offered direction and support in our 
challenge of the Executive’s proposals and 
direction. Key areas of focus for the NED’s 
discussions in 2019 were succession 
planning, effective implementation of 
Group strategy, review and challenge  
of M&A options and oversight of 
operational, financial and exploration 
project performance and KPIs. 

74

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019BOARD MEMBERS

Rui de Sousa
Non-Executive Chair 
Nominations Committee Chair

Ed Story
President and  
Chief Executive Officer 
Nominations Committee member 
Environmental, Social and 
Governance Committee member

Jann Brown
Managing Director and  
Chief Financial Officer 
Environmental, Social and 
Governance Committee member

Dr Mike Watts
Managing Director

Rob Gray*
Deputy Chair,  
Non-Executive Director and  
Senior Independent Director  
Audit and Risk Committee member  
Remuneration Committee Chair 
(from 23 May 2019) 
Nominations Committee member 
Environmental, Social and 
Governance Committee member

John Martin*
Independent Non-Executive 
Audit and Risk Committee Chair 
Environmental, Social and  
Governance Committee Chair 
Remuneration Committee member 
Nominations Committee member

Ettore Contini*
Non-Executive Director

António Monteiro* 
(retired 23 May 2019) 
Non-Executive Director 
Remuneration Committee Chair 
Audit and Risk Committee member 
Nominations Committee member

Marianne Daryabegui*
(from 15 March 2019) 

Non-Executive Director 
Audit and Risk Committee member 
Remuneration Committee member 
Nominations Committee member

* Independent Non-Executive Directors. 

DIVERSITY OF SKILLS, BACKGROUNDS AND EXPERIENCE

The Board places importance  
on the diversity of approach, 
experience, knowledge, skills,  
and professional, educational  
and cultural backgrounds. This 
diversity has brought an 
international and global outlook 
which has been particularly 
beneficial to the Board’s 
discussions about the strategic 
positioning of its current  
and new business ventures.

As at 10 March 2020, the Group 
had a Board of eight Directors.

 NED 

 Executive

Access to strategic relationships

3

3

5

3

Industry contacts 
4

City contacts 
2

Entrepreneurial 

3

Commercial knowledge 
3

3

3

Accounting/disclosure/reporting 

2

1

Regulatory/governance 
3

1

Banking/finance/market 

5

3

Meeting attendance
During each Director’s respective term of office during 2019

Director

Rui de Sousa

Ed Story

Jann Brown

Dr Mike Watts

Rob Gray

Ettore Contini

Marianne Daryabegui

John Martin

António Monteiro 
(retired 23 May 2019)

Board meeting 
(scheduled  
quarterly)
++++
++++
++++
++++
++++
++++
+++
++++
+

Board meeting  
(additional)
+++
+++
+++
+++
+++
+++
++
+++
+

Audit and  
Risk Committee  
meeting

Remuneration 
Committee  
meeting

Nominations  
Committee  
meeting
++++
++++

++++

++++

++++

+++
++++
+

+++
++++
+

+++
++++
+

Environmental, 
Social and 
Governance 
Committee 
meeting

+
+
+
+

+

Annual General  
Meeting
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+

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Safety has remained a top priority for the Group and 
responsibility for this has been given enhanced prominence 
with the establishment of the ESG Committee. 

Dr Mike Watts 
Managing Director

The decision to appoint John Martin to the 
position of Chair to replace me when I step 
down in 2020 will allow for continuity in 
pursuit of our long-term goals. John has 
been on the Board for 18 months now  
and his experience and independent 
appreciation of stakeholder priorities, risk 
management and global positioning have 
already impacted the Board’s thinking. 
I wish him well in his new role and I am 
confident he will continue to be that 
beacon of light for the Group on the  
basis of which Pharos is named. 

Safety has remained a top priority for the 
Group and responsibility for this has been 
given enhanced prominence with the 
establishment of the ESG Committee,  
led by John Martin. 

We are pleased that Pharos has achieved 
another year with no LTIs and we intend  
to protect this excellent track record by 
staying current with international 
performance standards. 

Since inception in Vietam, our record in 
activities relating to social matters is 
measurable. This includes approximately  
$4 million towards community and 
charitable investments supporting 
partnerships and projects in Vietnam 
through the HLHVJOC Charitable Donation 
Programme. We have also committed 
approximately $6 million in total as a 
training levy in Vietnam for industry 
capacity building since our inception. 

In Egypt, we are in the process of assessing 
where we can make the most valuable 
contribution to long-term social projects, 
both at the local level and more widely.

Our initiatives to reduce greenhouse gas 
emissions in Egypt have been successful. 
For example, we have completed Phase 
One of the utilisation of associated-gas 
powered electricity generators, with 
further Phase Two reductions in progress. 
We have also eliminated 730,000 litres of 
diesel use per year, and recorded a 30% 
reduction of flared gas at North Silah Deep. 

In July 2018 the UK Financial Reporting 
Council (“FRC”) published a revised and 
updated version of the UK Corporate 
Governance Code, to have effect for 
reporting years commencing on or  
after 1 January 2019 (the “2018 Code”).  
This is the first year that we will be 
reporting in accordance with the 
2018 Code. 

76

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019During 2019 the Nominations Committee 
(see report page 86) focused on 
succession planning, including for the role 
of Chair and Chair of the Audit and Risk 
Committee, a Board evaluation, and a 
review of each Director. The Company 
Secretary provided assistance in the 
evaluation and review process, by a 
questionnaire. The conclusions of this 
review provided valuable feedback and 
have resulted in a renewed vigour to 
develop the objectives for 2020 in line  
with the 2018 Code and a clear 
commitment to compliance with s. 172(1)  
of the Companies Act. 

The Remuneration Committee has 
reviewed its policy and proposed 
appropriate changes from 2020 to reflect 
the support of the business strategy.  
The Remuneration Committee has also 
proposed changes to the Executive 
Director Remuneration Policy  
for 2020 (see report at page 96); an 
innovative approach to incentivise how our 
triumvirate of Executives demonstrate their 
commitment to the business and work 
closely together with the Board to deliver 
on the objectives of the organisation. 

We will continue building on these 
developments in 2020. Our priorities will  
be on managing value in a volatile world, 
focusing on the risks and opportunities 
which present themselves, ensuring that 
our capital structure is robust and our 
capital allocation is focused on value and 
cash flow. Our focus is now on developing 
the platform we created in the MENA 
region with the acquisition of the El Fayum 
field to continue to deliver both yield and 
growth opportunities for our shareholders. 

Environmental, Social and  
Governance (ESG) Committee

Dear shareholders, 

To further Pharos’ ongoing commitment to operating a sustainable 
business, we are very proud to have established an ESG Committee in 
September 2019. As the incoming Chair of Pharos Energy plc, I wanted 
to ensure that my personal commitment to ESG matters was at the 
forefront of our business, therefore I accepted the position of Chair of 
this Board Committee. The whole Board felt the same and comprise the 
members of this important Committee.

Pharos engaged with stakeholders, consultants and sector advisors to 
establish the scope and parameters of the work of the ESG Committee. 
The Committee are responsible for defining the Group’s strategy for 
ESG matters, reviewing the Group’s ESG policies, programmes and 
initiatives and more generally oversight of the Group’s management of 
ESG matters.  

Members of the Committee are undergoing an onboarding process, 
outlining and clarifying Group objectives and identifying ESG initiatives 
in the UK, Egypt and Vietnam. At an operational level, country 
management representatives, risk, technical and finance team members 
have formed the working group to implement the initiatives. 

Pharos is committed to the Task Force for Climate-related Financial 
Disclosure (TCFD) objectives.  Pharos is following the spirit of the TFCD 
guidance, including an expectation to further develop our approach and 
consider disclosure on the use of scenarios in future Annual Reports. 

We are excited by this new development in our sector, we are proud to 
adopt the formal Committee to address ESG issues and I look forward 
to personally ensuring that the Pharos Group delivers on this initiative.

Further information about our Corporate Responsibility can be found  
on page 56. 

John Martin

Rui de Sousa
Chair

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STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCE REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONPharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019CHAIR’S INTRODUCTION TO GOVERNANCE CONTINUED

KEY AREAS OF FOCUS IN 2020

OBJECTIVES FOR 2020

•  Continuing focus on enhancing the efficiency  
of the balance sheet and investing for growth

The Board’s focus areas for 2020 include:
•  Ongoing integration of Egyptian assets  

•  Continuing to assess all options available to 

and personnel

maintain production levels in Vietnam

•  Continued succession planning

•  Ongoing implementation of Group strategy

•  Board refreshment opportunities

•  Reviewing growth opportunities

•  Managing transition to new Chair

•  Assessing composition of the Board

•  Transition to new Chair

•  Overseeing operational, financial and exploration 

project performance

•  Integration of Pharos El Fayum assets

•  Risk review and management

78

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019MANAGEMENT

Board of Directors

Management Committees

Executive leadership team

Further support the Board and comprise  
the following key committees:

•  Disclosure

•  Treasury

•  Defence

Responsible for day-to-day management  
of our business and operations and for  
monitoring detailed performance of all  
aspects of our business.

Audit and Risk Committee

Remuneration Committee

Nominations Committee

Environmental, Social and 
Governance Committee

Principal Committees of the Board

J Martin (Chair) 

R Gray

M Daryabegui

R Gray (Chair)

J Martin 

M Daryabegui

R de Sousa (Chair)

J Martin (Chair)

E Story

R Gray

J Martin

M Daryabegui

R Gray 

E Story 

J Brown 

Responsible for the 
integrity of the Financial 
Statements and narrative 
reporting, including annual 
and half year reports. 

Responsible for the  
design, development  
and implementation  
of the Company’s 
remuneration policy. 

Responsible for ensuring 
the leadership needs of the 
Company are sufficiently 
appropriate to ensure 
continued ability to 
compete effectively in the 
marketplace.

Responsible for defining the 
Group’s strategy related to 
Environmental, Social and 
Governance (ESG) matters, 
review of the Group’s ESG 
policies, programmes and 
initiatives and, more 
generally, oversight of the 
Group’s management of 
ESG matters.

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STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCE REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONPharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Experienced  
leaders guiding  
our future

3

6

1

4

7

2

5

8

80

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019 X    Committee Chair
 X    Committee member

A   Audit and Risk
  Remuneration
 R  
 N

Nominations

 E

Environmental, Social and 

Governance (ESG) Committee

7: Marianne Daryabegui
Non-Executive Director
Appointed: March 2019 

A   R   N   
Marianne is currently a Managing 
Director at Natixis, and was previously 
the Head of Natural Resources at 
BNP Paribas in Paris, France. She has 
extensive experience in oil and gas 
corporate transactions and capital 
markets and has advised oil majors, 
independent E&Ps and national oil 
companies. Prior to leading the Oil 
and Gas Corporate Finance Team  
in 2006, Marianne worked for eight 
years in BNP Paribas’ Energy 
Commodities Export Project 
Department where she headed the 
Commodity Structure Finance team 
for the Middle East and Africa. Before 
joining the banking sector Marianne 
spent eight years at TOTAL. Marianne 
has a Master’s degree in Finance and 
Capital Markets from Sciences Po 
University, Paris and a Masters in Tax 
and Corporate Law.

8: Ettore Contini
Non-Executive Director
Appointed: December 2001

Ettore was formerly a Director  
of Energia E Servize SpA and 
Eurowatt-Commerce. He was 
previously an asset manager  
in the private banking division  
of Banca del Gottardo.

Committee 
position key 

1: Rui de Sousa 
Non-Executive Chair
Appointed: July 1999 

N  
Rui has approximately 40 years’ 
experience in the energy sector. 
He was formerly a Director of 
Gazprombank-Invest (Lebanon) SAL, 
the Chairman of Carbon Resource 
Management Ltd. and the President  
of Quantic Mining. Rui is currently a 
Director of Quantic Limited, Midus 
Global Limited and Chairman of 
Blackdown Resources.

2: Ed Story 
President and  
Chief Executive Officer
Appointed: April 1997

N   E  
Ed was a founding Director of the 
Group. Under his leadership, the 
Group acquired its principal assets  
in Vietnam and progressed the  
assets from initial exploration  
through to being one of the largest 
producing fields in Vietnam.
Ed has over 50 years’ experience in 
the oil and gas industry, beginning 
with various roles at Exxon 
Corporation, including seven years 
resident in the Far East. He was 
formerly the Vice President and  
CFO of The Superior Oil Company,  
a co-founder and Vice Chairman of 
Conquest Exploration Company  
and a co-founder and President of 
Snyder Oil Corporation’s international 
subsidiary, which merged its 
Australian-controlled entity, 
Command Petroleum, into Cairn 
Energy. Ed was a Non-Executive 
Director of Cairn Energy plc until 
2008 and Cairn India Limited until 
2017. Ed is currently a Non-Executive 
Director of Vedanta Resources plc 
and a founder and member of the 
Cleveland Clinic International 
Leadership Board.

3: Jann Brown 
Managing Director and  
Chief Financial Officer
Appointed: November 2017

E  
Jann served as co-head of the 
Company’s Business Development 
group between February 2017 and 
November 2017 before her 
appointment to the Board. Jann 
currently serves as an Independent 
Non-Executive Director and Chair of 
the Audit Committee of Troy Income 
and Growth Trust plc and of the 
Scottish Ballet. Jann previously served 
as an Independent Non-Executive 
Director and Chair of the Audit 
Committee of John Wood Group 
P.L.C. and was formerly the Managing 
Director, Chief Financial Officer and 
executive Director of Cairn Energy plc 
where she had responsibility for 
project managing Cairn India Limited’s 
initial public offering. Jann also 
previously served as the Joint Chief 
Executive Officer and Chief Financial 
Officer at Magna Energy Limited, of 
which she was also co-founder and is 
a past President of the Institute of 
Chartered Accountants of Scotland.

4: Dr Mike Watts
Managing Director
Appointed: November 2017

Mike served as co-head of the 
Company’s Business Development 
group between February 2017  
and November 2017, and as an 
Independent Non-Executive Director 
of the Board between August 2009 
and January 2017. He was formerly the 
Deputy Chief Executive of Cairn 
Energy plc and the Chief Executive 
Officer and Managing Director of the 
Amsterdam listed Holland Sea Search 
Holding NV. Mike joined Royal Dutch 
Shell in 1980 and has nearly 40 years 
of oil industry experience. He has 
been associated with over 50 oil and 
gas discoveries. Mike was also the 
architect of the South Asia strategy at 
Holland Sea Search and Cairn, which 
led to the creation of a >200,000 
boepd business. Mike has held senior 
technical and management roles with 
Premier Oil, Burmah and Shell and as 
Joint Chief Executive Officer and 
co-founder of Magna Energy Limited.

5: Rob Gray
Deputy Chair,  
Non-Executive Director and 
Senior Independent Director
Appointed: December 2013

R   A   N   E  
Rob has been an adviser to the natural 
resources sector for more than 
30 years. Rob qualified as a solicitor  
in 1981 at Allen & Overy and then went 
on to help establish James Capel & 
Co. Petroleum Services, a successful 
advisory and Mergers & Acquisitions 
practice. Rob’s experience includes 
13 years at Deutsche Bank where he 
was latterly a Senior Advisor having 
been Chairman of UK Investment 
Banking for five years and formerly 
Global Head of Natural Resources. 
Rob was previously a Director and 
Head of the Natural Resource Group 
at Robert Fleming & Co. Ltd. for four 
years, a group which he established. 
Between 2000 and 2010, Rob was an 
Advisory Board Member for Heerema 
Marine Contractors. Rob was a 
co-founder of RegEnersys, a natural 
resources investment entity and is 
currently the principal of ReVysion 
LLP. In 2018 Rob was appointed an 
adviser to the T2 Energy Transition 
Fund of Tikehau Capital.

6: John Martin
Non-Executive Director
Appointed: June 2018

A   E   R   N  
John has more than 30 years’ 
experience in international banking in 
the oil and gas industry and was a 
Senior Managing Director in the Oil 
and Gas team at Standard Chartered 
Bank. Prior to joining Standard 
Chartered in 2007, John worked for 
ABN Amro for 26 years, specialising in 
the energy sector. John has served as 
the Senior Vice President of the World 
Petroleum Council, and as an 
Independent Non-Executive Director 
of Rockhopper Exploration plc. He 
was previously Chairman of Falkland 
Oil and Gas Limited, an Independent 
Non-Executive Director on the board 
of Bowleven plc and an Independent 
Non-Executive Director and  
Chair of the Audit Committee  
of Total E&P UK Limited.

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STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCE REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONPharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
 
 
 
CORPORATE GOVERNANCE REPORT

2018 UK Corporate Governance 
Code (the ‘2018 Code’)

Statement of compliance with  
the 2018 Code 
The Company was in compliance with the 
2018 Code throughout the year. Provision 
19 of the 2018 Code states that the usual 
nine year tenure limit as the Chair may be 
extended for a limited time in order to 
facilitate effective succession planning and 
the development of a diverse Board. This 
transition period was utilised in relation to 
the Chair who is stepping down.

Roles
The statutory duty of the Directors is to act in 
what they consider to be in the best interests 
of the Company and, as a unitary Board, they 
are responsible for the long-term success of 
the Company. The Board determines and 
develops the strategy for the business and 
provides it with the necessary 
entrepreneurial leadership. It ensures the 
Company is adequately resourced to meet 
its strategic objectives and can meet its 
obligations to its stakeholders. The Board 
sets the values, standards and controls 
necessary for risk to be effectively assessed 
and managed. Some of its responsibilities 
have been delegated to the Audit and Risk, 
Remuneration and Nominations Committees.

The roles of the Chair and Chief Executive 
Officer are separated and their 
responsibilities are clearly established, set 
out in writing and agreed by the Board. Both 
are collectively responsible for the leadership 
of the Company. The Chair chairs the Board 
meetings, leads the NEDs in the constructive 
challenge of the Executives’ strategy and is 
accountable for the Board’s effectiveness. 
This includes encouraging an open and frank 
Boardroom culture, setting the Board’s 
agenda, facilitating the NEDs’ contribution 
and ensuring sufficient time and information 
to promote effective and challenging 
discussions. The Chair has been in his current 
role since 1999. 

The CEO is responsible for the everyday 
management of the Company. He leads the 
Executives and management team in the 
implementation of the Board’s strategy and 
management’s performance in running 
the business.

The NEDs have a supervisory role that 
contributes to the development of the 
strategy through supportive and 
challenging inquiry. They scrutinise the 
Executives’ performance in meeting their 
agreed goals and objectives, and play a key 
role in their appointment or removal.

The Company Secretary is appointed by 
the Board. He facilitates the communications 
and processes of the Board, the induction 
programme for new Directors and provides 
advice through the Chair as may be required 
in the ongoing discharge of the Directors’ 
duties. This includes ensuring that the 
Company provides the necessary resources 
for access to independent advice and any 
individual professional training and 
development needs agreed with 
each Director.

Matters reserved for the Board
The Board operates within a framework 
that distinguishes the types of decisions to 
be taken by the Board, including 
determination of strategy, setting the 
principal operating policies and standards 
of conduct, approval of overall financial 
budgets and financing agreements, 
approval for establishing key corporate 
relationships and approval of any actions or 
matters requiring the approval of 
shareholders. Within this framework, while 
the Board has largely delegated the 
authority for implementing its strategy and 
decisions to the Executives and 
management, there is a formal schedule of 
matters specifically reserved for the 
Board’s decision or determination.

Committees
There are four principal committees of the 
Board:

•  The Audit and Risk Committee – 

responsible for the integrity of the 
Financial Statements and narrative 
reporting, including annual and half year 
reports

•  The Remuneration Committee – 

responsible for the design, development 
and implementation of the Company’s 
remuneration policy 

•  The Nominations Committee – 

responsible for ensuring the leadership 
needs of the Company are sufficiently 
appropriate to ensure continued ability 
to compete effectively in the 
marketplace

•  The Environmental, Social and 

Governance (ESG) Committee - 
responsible for defining the Group’s 
strategy related to ESG matters. 

Each principal Board committee has a 
formal Terms of Reference (“TOR”), which 
sets out the Committee’s delegated role 
and authority and is approved by the 
Board. The revised TOR are available on the 
Company’s website at https://www.pharos.
energy/about-us/governance/committees/.

Attendance
The Board has four scheduled meetings a 
year although additional meetings are 
scheduled as required. At each scheduled 
meeting in 2019, the Directors received a 
report from each of the principal Board 
committees, the Chief Executive Officer, 
Chief Financial Officer, the joint Managing 
Directors, the Chief Operating Officer and 
Group Head of Investor Relations. 
Discussions around M&A activity, asset 
disposals and strategic corporate finance 
were regular agenda items throughout  
the year. 

Meeting and attendance are set out in the 
table on page 75.

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019Only Committee members are entitled to 
attend their respective meetings. Other 
Directors were invited to attend, as 
determined appropriate or beneficial, and 
committee chairs provide an update at the 
full Board meeting. There was full 
attendance of committee members at the 
Audit and Risk, Remuneration and 
Nominations Committees in 2019.

See page 75 for a full overview of meeting 
attendance by each Director. 

Board composition
The Nominations Committee ensures the 
leadership needs of the Company are met 
and maintained appropriately to allow it to 
compete effectively in the marketplace. 
The Directors’ roles, including those of the 
principal Board committees, are 
established in writing and approved by the 
Board. Biographical details are provided on 
page 81.

During the year, the Board comprised eight 
Directors including the Chair, made up of 
three Executives and five NEDs. Between 
the appointment of Marianne Daryabegui 
on 15 March 2019 and the retirement of 
António Monteiro on 23 May, there was 
also an additional NED on the Board.

Antony Maris, Chief Operating Officer, 
stepped down at the end of 2019 after 15 
years of service. In January 2020, Pharos 
announced that Ettore Contini, 
Non-Executive Director, will not stand for 
re-election at the upcoming 2020 AGM, 
following 18 years of service. Geoffrey 
Green will be appointed as an Independent 
Non-Executive Director with effect from 
the conclusion of the 2020 AGM.

Tony Hunter was Company Secretary 
throughout the year and his appointment 
was approved by the Board as a whole.

Changes during the year

The Board

Members

Execs

NEDs 

Independent NEDs

Appointed 

Retired 

Audit and Risk Committee

Members 

Appointed

Retired 

Remuneration Committee

Members 

Appointed 

Retired 

Nominations Committee

Members 

Appointed

Retired

2019

8

3

5

Rob Gray
John Martin

Marianne Daryabegui (15 March 2019)

António Monteiro (23 May 2019)

3

Marianne Daryabegui (15 March 2019)

António Monteiro (23 May 2019)

3

Marianne Daryabegui (15 March 2019)

António Monteiro (23 May 2019)

5

Marianne Daryabegui (15 March 2019)

António Monteiro (23 May 2019)

Environmental, Social and Governance 
Committee

Members 

Appointed

4

All members appointed on 10 September 2019 

As announced on 19 February 2019, 
Marianne Daryabegui was appointed as an 
Independent NED with effect from 
15 March 2019. Marianne serves as a 
member of the Remuneration Committee, 
Nominations Committee and the Audit and 
Risk Committee.

Also on 19 February 2019, it was announced 
that Ambassador António Monteiro, 
Non-Executive Director and Chair of the 
Remuneration Committee, would retire 
from the Board at the AGM on 23 May 2019 
following 10 years of service.

More information on Board composition, 
including independence, balance, diversity, 
succession planning and evaluation, is 
provided in the Nominations Committee 
report on page 86.

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCE REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONCORPORATE GOVERNANCE REPORT CONTINUED

Audit, risk and internal control
The Audit and Risk Committee has 
responsibility for reviewing the integrity of 
the Financial Statements and narrative 
reporting, including annual and half year 
reports. The Committee also oversees the 
adequacy and effectiveness of the internal 
financial controls and internal controls and 
risk management systems, and relationship 
with the external auditor. The Company’s 
risk profile is assessed and updated  
at least annually by the Committee.  
At each scheduled meeting of the 
Committee, it considers the Group’s 
internal control framework and receives  
an Environmental, Social and Governance 
Report (“ESG Report”). 

More information, including the 
Committee’s composition and activities 
during the year, is provided in the Audit and 
Risk Committee report on pages 90 to 95.

Remuneration
The Remuneration Committee is 
responsible for the design, development 
and implementation of the Company’s 
Remuneration Policy. 

In determining the remuneration packages 
awarded to management, the Board and 
the Remuneration Committee have 
continued to aim at providing incentive 
schemes that reflect the characteristics of 
attractive rewards, fairness and restraint. 

Our overarching aim is to operate a 
Remuneration Policy which rewards senior 
management at an appropriate level for 
delivering against the Company’s annual 
and longer-term strategic objectives. 
The policy is intended to create strong 
alignment between Executive Directors  
and shareholders. 

In line with normal practice and regulatory 
requirements, it is intended that the 
Remuneration Policy will next be put to 
shareholders for approval at the 
2020 AGM.

More information, including the 
Committee’s composition and activities 
during the year and the proposed 
Remuneration Policy, is provided in the 
Directors’ Remuneration Report on pages 
96 to 117. As stated above, the TORs of the 
Remuneration Committee were reviewed 
and updated in December 2019.

Relations with stakeholders
Investors
The Board as a whole has responsibility for 
ensuring that a satisfactory dialogue with 
shareholders takes place. The Executives 
are responsible for ensuring that effective 
communication is maintained with key 
stakeholders and partners, including an 
appropriate level of contact with major 
shareholders and ensuring that their views 
are communicated to the Board. The 
Managing Director and Chief Financial 
Officer has management responsibility for 
investor relations.

To maintain a clear understanding of the 
views of shareholders, all Directors receive 
a quarterly investor relations report which 
includes market updates, brokerage and 
communications reports, share register 
and share performance analysis and 
comments and notes from research 
analysts and proxy agencies. As noted in 
the Remuneration Committee report on 
page 96, the Chair of the Remuneration 
Committee consulted with institutional 
shareholders and their key proxy advisers 
on remuneration matters during 2019.

Pharos had an open and active dialogue 
with its institutional, private and retail 
shareholders throughout the year. The 
Company uses its online presence to post 
and disseminate key information promptly 
to a wide audience. The Company’s website 
is regularly used by shareholders and 
stakeholders for email communication with 
management. Following the name change 
in October 2019, Pharos launched official 
Twitter and LinkedIn accounts. The 
Company uses a PR agency to provide 
assistance in the dissemination of 
information to shareholders and the general 
public and also to solicit active feedback as 
to the effectiveness of such efforts.

The NEDs are each responsible for taking 
sufficient steps to understand shareholder 
views, including any issues or concerns. 
This includes being available to Pharos’ 
major institutional shareholders and 
responding to requests for additional 
communication with the Chair, Senior 

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019meets with the head office staff annually 
without Executive colleagues present. This 
engagement has proved an effective 
communication route for the employees 
and demonstrates the openness and 
integrity value we are committed to. Staff 
based outside head office are provided 
with a forum to communicate directly with 
the appointed Director representative.

Independent Director or other NED. The 
delegated role of the Senior Independent 
Director includes being available to 
shareholders if they have concerns which 
cannot be fully or appropriately addressed 
by the Chair or the Executives. 

Local communities,  
governments and employees
For more information on who are the 
Pharos stakeholders and how the 
engagement programme is executed, 
please refer to page 58.

AGMs
Both before and after the formal 
proceedings of each AGM, all Directors 
and senior management, including the 
Chairs of the Audit and Risk, Remuneration 
and Nominations Committees, make 
themselves available to meet and chat with 
shareholders, answer shareholder 
questions and respond to any specific 
queries.

Notice of the AGM is circulated to all 
shareholders at least 20 working days prior 
to the meeting, and resolutions are 
proposed for each substantially separate 
issue. The result of AGM proxy voting is 
announced after votes are taken on a show 
of hands or on a poll.

Corporate culture
It has been important to the Board to 
preserve and enhance a corporate culture 
of honesty, fairness, transparency, 
engagement and respect. The Board 
schedule format has been adjusted to give 
space for increased engagement amongst 
the NEDs, including the Senior Independent 
Director and the Chair, without the presence 
of the Executives, and to provide further 
opportunity to raise and discuss concerns.

For the workforce, this has been 
approached in a variety of forms including 
extending participation in the Company’s 
share schemes, lunch and learn sessions 
with management and other feedback 
channels, including through the Group’s 
whistleblowing policy and access to a 
dedicated and anonymous hotline.

One of the provisions of the 2018 Code, 
which took effect for Pharos Energy from 
1 January 2019, is employee engagement at 
a Board level. Given the size and location of 
Pharos’s workforce (66 employees with the 
majority UK-based), it was proposed that a 
UK-based independent NED be nominated 
as the Director to represent the employee 
voice at Board level. In December 2018, 
John Martin was appointed to the role and 

Accountability statement page references 

Accountability statements

Business model and Strategic objectives 

Directors’ responsibility statement 

Auditor’s statement 

Going concern statement 

Report

Strategic Report 

Directors’ Report 

Independent Auditor’s Report 

Financial Review 

Directors’ Report

Viability statement 

Risk Management Report 

Critical judgements and accounting estimates 

Note 4 to the Financial Statements 

Risk Management and Internal Control

Risk Management Report 

Audit and Risk Committee 

Nominations Committee 

Corporate Governance Report 

Audit and Risk Committee Report

Corporate Governance Report 

Audit and Risk Committee Report

Corporate Governance Report 

Nominations Committee Report 

Page(s)

20 to 23

121

122

45

120

54

139

46

82

90

82

90

82

86

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCE REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION 
NOMINATIONS COMMITTEE REPORT

A balance of experience  
and independence makes  
our Board effective. 
Rui de Sousa 
Nominations Committee Chair

Meeting

Q1

The Committee led a process to 
ensure that Board independence 
increased during 2019 and will 
continue into 2020 taking into 
account the Board composition 
requirements of the new 2018 UK 
Corporate Governance Code. 

Membership
•  During the year, the Committee 

comprised the Chair, the Chief Executive 
Officer and the three Independent 
Non-Executive Directors (‘NEDs’), Rob 
Gray, John Martin, António Monteiro 
(retired) and, following her appointment 
as a Director on 15 March 2019, Marianne 
Daryabegui

Q2

Q3

Q4

•  António Monteiro retired on 23 May 2019 
and was replaced on the Committee by 
Marianne Daryabegui.

•  The qualifications of each of the  

Chair and members are set out on  
page 81

Meetings
The Committee conducted its duties through four meetings held during 2019.  
The Chair additionally led discussions before the full Board on certain matters within the 
Committee’s Terms of Reference. The first meeting of the year, held in March 2019, was 
attended by all members appointed to the Committee at the time. During the year the 
following areas were discussed at the Committee meetings:

Matter

•  Board and Committee changes
•  Reappointment of Directors
•  Board succession planning

• 

Initial review of Nominations Committee calendar

•  Chair succession planning
•  Finalisation of Committee calendar

•  Update on appointment of Chair selection process

•  Consideration of appointment of an additional NED
•  Search for a new Audit and Risk Committee Chair
•  Annual Board evaluation
•  Annual review of Board balance, structure, independence and compositon

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019Role of the Committee

•  Ensuring the composition of the 
Company’s leadership remains  
effective and competitive 

•  Leading the process for Board and 

committee appointments and making 
recommendations to the Board

•  Annually reviewing the Board balance, 
structure, composition, diversity and 
succession planning

•  Establishing an ongoing process for 
evaluating the Board’s performance  
and effectiveness.

António Monteiro reached nine years’ 
service since his first election by 
shareholders at the 2010 AGM and ceased 
to be considered to be independent by the 
Board at that point. António did not submit 
himself for re-election at the 2019 AGM and 
stepped down from the Board at the 
conclusion of the meeting. 

Notwithstanding António’s retirement, the 
independent presence on the Board has 
been maintained and reinforced with the 
appointment of Marianne Daryabegui to 
the Board with effect from 15 March 2019. 

The Committee recognises that, under the 
new provisions of the 2018 Code applicable 
to the current financial year commencing 
1 January 2019:

•  Pharos no longer has the ability to rely on 
the “smaller company” exemption from 
the general requirement that at least half 
of the Board, excluding the Chair, must 
be Independent NEDs; and

•  The Chair should not remain in place 

beyond nine years from the date of first 
appointment, save that the period can be 
extended for a limited time to “facilitate 
effective succession planning”.

During 2019 the Committee worked 
effectively to comply with these changes 
and deliver on that commitment in 2020.

Meeting attendance

Committee member

2019 attendance

Committee member

2019 attendance

Marianne Daryabegui*

(appointed 15 March 2019)

+++

+  Attended 
*  Independent NED 

Rui de Sousa (Chair)

Ed Story  
(President and CEO)

Rob Gray* 
(Deputy Chair and Senior 
Independent Director)

John Martin* 

++++

++++

++++

++++

António Monteiro* 
(retired 23 May 2019)

+

As at 31 December 2019, the Board 
comprised three Executives and five NEDs, 
including the Chair. Four of those NEDs 
were considered independent for the 
purposes of the 2018 UK Corporate 
Governance Code (‘2018 Code’).  
Rob Gray assumed the role of Chair  
of the Remuneration Committee  
following António’s retirement. 

Board refreshment and  
succession planning
Board refreshment and succession 
planning continue as ongoing processes. 
In 2019 the priority was to increase the 
independent component of the Board and 
to begin preparations for the new 
requirements on Board composition 
introduced by the 2018 Code. 

As announced on 19 February 2019, 
Marianne Daryabegui, an Independent  
NED, was appointed to the Board with 
effect from 15 March 2019. Marianne, who 
had previously been an Independent  
NED of the Company between October 
2013 and October 2016, also serves as a 
member of the Remuneration, Nominations 
and Audit and Risk Committees. 

The Committee will continue to pursue 
suitable candidates for Independent NEDs 
with the objective of maintaining full 
compliance with the 2018 Code. The search 
consultancy firm Korn Ferry, which has no 
other connections with the Company or its 
Directors, was appointed to assist the 
Board and the Committee in this process 
during 2019.

Succession planning for the roles within 
senior management reporting into Board 
level has also been given consideration with 
new appointments in Technical, Legal and 
HR functions.

Appointments process
Board appointments are made through a 
formal process led by the Nominations 
Committee. In relation to the recruitment 
and appointment of Non-Executive 
Directors, the Committee recognises the 
emphasis placed by the 2018 Code  
on the engagement of an external search 
consultancy or the open advertising 
of vacancies. 

During 2019, the Committee assessed the 
suitability of Marianne Daryabegui for 
reappointment as an Independent NED, 
taking into account her previous three-year 
service on the Board, and concluded that 
her expertise and track record in oil and 
gas and corporate finance, with particular 
experience in the Group’s new region of 
focus in the MENA region, would 
complement and enhance the skills and 
experience of the current Board.

More recently, the Committee assessed 
the suitability of Geoffrey Green for 
appointment as an Independent NED, 
taking into account his many years of legal 
and commercial experience in advising 
major UK listed companies on corporate 
governance issues, mergers and acquisition 
and corporate finance.

Independence
As stated above, increasing the balance of 
independence of the Board has been a 
priority for the Committee during 2019. 
Pharos had two Independent NEDs, Rob 
Gray and John Martin (Senior Independent 
Director and Deputy Chair) at the start of 
the year. Marianne Daryabegui was 
appointed on 15 March 2019. 

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Board balance
The Committee assesses the Board’s 
balance of skills, experience, independence, 
diversity, tenure and knowledge of the 
Company and the industry on an annual 
basis. The assessment in 2019 included 
consideration of the Company’s leadership 
needs within the context of growth, 
portfolio diversification and long-term 
strategy. The discussions determined that 
the current balance remains appropriate 
and sufficient to effectively promote the 
long-term success of the Company and 
would be further enhanced through the 
process already underway to increase the 
number of Independent NEDs.

The Board’s current balance and 
composition are shown on page 75.

Diversity
Pharos’ approach to diversity and 
inclusiveness is embedded within  
the Group’s Human Rights Policy  
available on the Company’s website at  
https://www.pharos.energy/responsibility/
policy-statements/. A key aim of the Policy 
is a workplace that is inclusive and free 
from discrimination. 

In applying the Human Rights Policy to 
Board composition, the Committee 
pursues diversity of approach, experience, 
knowledge, skills, and professional, 
educational and cultural backgrounds.  
The international and global perspective 
achieved has enhanced the Board’s 
discussions on business development, M&A 
and operational and financial integration.

In its annual review of diversity, the 
Committee noted diversity of gender, age, 
demographics, skills, professional 
backgrounds, experience and education 
amongst the Board and senior 
management.

Board evaluation
In 2019, the Board carried out its annual 
evaluation of its own performance and 
effectiveness and that of its principal 
Committees and individual Directors. 
The Committee led the process and 
shared the results with the full Board. 
The Committee was assisted in this 
process by the Company Secretary.

Annual Board evaluations had been 
conducted externally until 2017 when 
Tony Hunter, who had previously led the 
external process on behalf of Nautilus 
Management Limited, was appointed 
as Company Secretary.

Following the evaluation process, a number 
of areas were identified for ongoing focus 
in 2020 including:

•  Review of risks in M&A activity to be 

assessed

•  Operational updates to the Board are 

important and encourage commitment 
to the business

•  Continuation of the programme to 
increase Board independence, 
particularly in light of the 2018 Code

•  The importance of maintaining an 

atmosphere of open challenge and 
informal discussion between meetings

As in 2018, the more recent evaluation was 
conducted through confidential 
questionnaires that solicited an evaluation 
of the Board’s performance in regards to 
the following:

•  Strategy and risk, including how the 

Board has handled risk and opportunities

The results were discussed by the 
Committee, led by the Committee Chair, 
and shared with the whole Board. The 
results of the Chair’s performance review 
were discussed with the other NEDs, led by 
the Deputy Chair and Senior Independent 
Director, and communicated to the Chair.

•  Corporate Responsibility

•  Succession planning

•  The performance of the Chair, 

Deputy Chair and Independent NEDs

•  Board effectiveness and operation

•  The operation of the principal 

Board committees

•  Board training and development needs

•  Time commitment

Re-election
All Directors annually retire and seek 
re-election by shareholders at the 
Company’s AGM. The Committee makes 
its recommendation to the Board on each 
re-election resolution. Pending the Chair 
confirming his satisfaction that each 
Director continues to perform effectively 
and with the appropriate commitment to 
the role, the full Board then determines its 
own recommendation to shareholders 
in relation to those resolutions.

The full Board retired and offered itself for 
re-election by shareholders at the 
Company’s AGM in May 2019, with the 
exception of António Monteiro who 
stepped down from the Board with effect 
from close of that meeting. All Directors 
were duly re-elected at the 2019 AGM, 
each receiving more than 92% of the proxy 
votes lodged in advance of the meeting. 

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019All Directors will retire and, other than 
Rui de Sousa and Ettore Contini, will offer 
themselves for re-election at the 
2020 AGM. 

The Committee is satisfied that each 
individual Director’s performance continues 
to be effective and demonstrates 
commitment to the role and, accordingly, 
has recommended to the Board that each 
such Director remains in office subject to 
re-election by shareholders at the AGM.

The Committee formed its 
recommendations regarding re-election 
following assessments of Board balance, 
composition and independence.

Workforce engagement
During the year, the Committee discussed 
the requirements of the 2018 Code, 
applicable for financial years commencing 
on or after 1 January 2019, in relation to 
proposals for workforce engagement. 
The 2018 Code proposed three alternative 
means of achieving this: a director 
appointed from the workforce; a formal 
workforce advisory panel; or a designated 
Non-Executive Director (or a combination 
of more than one of these).

It determined that due to the size and 
culture of the Company, the most effective 
means of ensuring representation of the 
workforce in the Boardroom would be to 
designate responsibility for workforce 
engagement to an Independent NED. 
John Martin was appointed by the 
Committee in this role in December 2018. 
John Martin has met with staff in the head 
office in an informal dedicated session at 
which staff members were able to discuss 
matters of interest at least twice annually 
This engagement has proved an effective 
communication route for the employees 
and demonstrates the openness and 
integrity value we are committed to.

Board development, information  
and support
Throughout 2019, all Directors received 
ongoing access to resources for the 
update of their skills and knowledge; both 
on an individual and a full Board basis. 
Comments are solicited in the annual Board 
evaluation and discussed with the Chair.

Each Director has notified the Board  
of either the potential for or the absence of 
conflicts. The Board assesses every 
notification of a conflict on its own merits, 
including the implementation of 
appropriate limits and conditions, prior to 
giving authorisation for any specific conflict 
or potential conflict to exist.

The Board assesses its conflict 
authorisations on an ongoing basis 
throughout the year and additionally 
performs a scheduled review in December.

Rui de Sousa 
Nominations Committee Chair

Conflicts of interest
The Board has the power, subject to certain 
conditions, to authorise, where appropriate, 
a situation where a Director has, or can 
have, a direct or indirect interest that 
conflicts, or possibly may conflict, with the 
Company’s interests. Such authority is in 
accordance with section 175 of the 
Companies Act 2006 and the Company’s 
Articles of Association. Procedures are in 
place for ensuring that the Board’s powers 
to authorise conflicts are used effectively 
and appropriately. Directors are required to 
notify the Company of any conflicts of 
interest or potential conflicts of interest 
that may arise, before they arise, either in 
relation to the Director concerned or their 
connected persons. The decision to 
authorise each situation is considered 
separately on its particular facts.

Only Directors who have no interest  
in the matter are able to take the relevant 
decision to authorise a conflict and must 
act in a way they consider, in good faith, 
will be most likely to promote the 
Company’s success. The Directors 
will impose such limits or conditions as 
they deem appropriate when giving 
authorisation or when an actual conflict 
arises. These may include provisions 
relating to confidential information, 
attendance at Board meetings and 
availability of Board papers, along with 
other measures as determined appropriate.

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCE REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONAUDIT AND RISK COMMITTEE REPORT

The Group’s renewed growth strategy has 
necessitated greater focus from the Audit  
and Risk Committee on Environmental, Social 
and Governance issues, as well as strong 
oversight over financial controls, prudent 
financial management, including risk 
management and mitigation. 
John Martin 
Non-Executive Director

Dear shareholders,

Membership and responsibilities
During most of 2019, the Audit and Risk 
Committee was comprised of myself as 
Chair, Rob Gray and Marianne Daryabegui, 
who replaced Antonio Monteiro from 
March 2019. Marianne, Rob and I are all 
Independent Non-Executive Directors each 
having recent and relevant financial 
experience in the energy sector. 

As Chair of the Committee, I convene 
meetings on a regular basis and report to 
the Board throughout the year.

The Audit and Risk Committee has a formal 
document outlining its responsibilities, 
which is reviewed and updated as 
appropriate by the Board on an 
annual basis.

The Audit and Risk Committee Terms  
of Reference are available on our website, 
https://www.pharos.energy/about-us/
governance/committees/.

Key responsibilities
•  Reviewing key financial, operational and 

corporate responsibility risk 
management processes with strong 
focus on Environmental, Social and 
Governance (“ESG”) issues

•  Reviewing and testing the integrity of the 
Group’s financial statements to ensure 
full compliance with international financial 
reporting standards and requirements

•  Overseeing the planning and execution 

of the ongoing external audit programme 
including a detailed review of audit 
quality and results

•  Reviewing the effectiveness of internal 

control processes and systems, including 
IT control platforms

Audit and Risk Committee  
meetings in 2019
The Committee met four times during 
2019. These meetings were regularly 
scheduled Committee meetings held in 
March, May, September and December. 
The Committee examines and discusses  
at each meeting:

•  Detailed review of ESG matters

•  Detailed review of internal controls  
and implementation of upgrades

•  Review of risk register and risk 

management reports

In addition to members of the Committee, 
all members of the Board, the finance 
management team, operational 
management and the Group’s external 
auditors, Deloitte, attended each of the 
Audit and Risk Committee meetings.

During 2019, the following additional  
areas were discussed at meetings of  
the Committee:

March
•  Regular review of ESG matters. This 
included a review of policies and 
procedures, climate change reporting, 
annual Corporate Responsibility (“CR”) 
Report, Annual Health, Safety, and 
Environmental and Social (“HSES”) Plan, 
update on the implementation of Human 
Rights and Modern Slavery Statement 
and an update on implementation of 
General Data Protection Regulation 
(GDPR)

•  Finance update including the Internal 
Controls Report, Reserves Update, 
Impairment Analysis, adoption of IFRS 16 
“Leases” and a review of the results in 
relation to the Group’s previously 
announced exit from Africa

•  Review and approval of 2018 financial 

statements, including reviews that they 
were fair, balanced and understandable, 
reviews of Going Concern and Viability 
Statements

•  Review of 2018 external audit status, 
including analyses of findings of the 
external audit and key judgemental areas

•  Review and update of the Audit and Risk 
Committee governance matters, with 
attention to internal controls processes 
and systems, and a detailed review of risk 
management issues and mitigation

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Meeting attendance

Allocation of Audit and Risk Committee time (%)

Committee member

2019 attendance

John Martin*

Rob Gray*

António Monteiro*1

Marianne Daryabegui*2

++++

++++

+

+++

+  Attended. 
Independent NED.
* 
1 
 Retired as a Director March 2019.
2   Appointed as a Director March 2019.

 Financials  

 Internal Controls  

 Risks 

 Governance  

 ESG 

45%

10%

15%

15%

15%

May
•  Review and discussion of ESG matters, 
including a review of key performance 
indicators

September
•  Review and discussion of ESG Report, 
including proposed new plans and 
policies, and organisational changes

•  Review and update of Internal Controls 
Report including closing of Africa exits, 
RBL compliance update, status of 
Treasury activities and joint venture audit 
of TGT/CNV, and review of the risk 
management report

•  Review and discussion of the Group’s 

finance strategy

•  Review and update on status of the 

integration of Pharos El Fayum asset  
and company

•  Review and approval of planned 

operational audit of El Fayum field 
operations

•  Review and update of Finance System 
enhancements including IT platforms

•  Review and assessment of risks including 
Anti-Bribery and Corruption policy, and 
implementation of employee awareness 
and training programmes

•  Review and update on GDPR actions and 

IT systems

•  Review and Approval of calendar 

checklist of duties for Audit and Risk 
Committee Meetings for the second  
half of 2019

•  Review and update and various approvals 

including: Fair Value Acquisition 
Accounting of the Merlon, Impairment of 
producing assets – CNV, TGT and El 
Fayum Concession, Exploration and 
Evaluation paper (PP&E Review), exit of 
African assets, Going Concern Paper, 
and IFRS 16 in relation to Pharos EI Fayum

•  Review and Approval of various Policy 
Updates including: Code of Business 
Conduct and Ethics, Anti-facilitation of 
Tax Evasion Policy, Risk Management and 
Risk Reporting, and review and approval 
of updated on-boarding policy

•  Review and Approval of 2019 Interim 
Accounts, including presentation by 
external auditor, Deloitte, and Audit and 
Risk Committee comments

•  Review and discussion of El Fayum 
Operations Audit and Findings, and 
approval of Recommendations

•  Review and approval of the Treasury 

Committee Report, including financing 
update, covenant compliance monitoring 
and update on commodity hedging

December
•  Review and discussion of progress of 

ESG matters including implementation of 
the newly formed ESG Committee and 
ESG Working Group and updates on ESG 
policies and procedures

•  Review and update on Internal Controls 

and Risk Report including: Detailed 
Review of upgraded Internal Controls 
and Risk Report, Review of draft revised 
2019 Business Risk Profile and Mitigation 
Report

•  Annual Review and Approval of Terms  

of Reference of the Audit and  
Risk Committee

•  Review of 2019 year-end planning and 
approval of the 2020 Internal Audit Plan

•  Review and discussion of Significant 

Risks including the Fair Value Acquisition 
Accounting for Merlon El Fayum 
Company

•  Review of external audit scope, review  
of audit quality and 2019 audit plan

•  Review of recent developments in 

relation to FRC requirements, proposed 
developments in relation to external 
auditors’ responsibilities, and other 
related regulatory and compliance 
matters

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Significant issues related to the 2019 
Financial Statements
The Committee identified the significant 
issues that should be taken into 
consideration in relation to the Financial 
Statements for the year ended 
31 December 2019, being key issues which 
may be subject to heightened risk of 
material mis-statement.

Fair, balanced and understandable
The Committee advised the Board whether 
the annual report and accounts taken  
as a whole are fair, balanced and 
understandable and provide the range of 
information necessary for shareholders to 
assess the Group’s performance, business 
model and strategy. The Directors have 
confirmed this in their Responsibility 
Statement set out on page 121 of the 
Annual Report of Directors.

Going Concern
Management completed their Going 
Concern assessment which was challenged 
and reviewed by the Committee and by 
Deloitte. The assessment included a “Base 
Case” for the Group, including cash flow 
estimates for both Egypt and Vietnam, as 
well as a “Reasonable Worst Case” 
scenario.

Under these scenarios, management has 
assessed, on a conservative basis, the risks 
around commodity pricing, operational risk 
and political and regional risks, particularly 
in Egypt. The assessments also took into 
account the impact of potential 
discretionary reductions in capital 
expenditures, as well as the hedging of 
production volumes to mitigate against 
commodity price fluctuations.

Based on this detailed analysis, 
management has concluded that the 
Group will continue as a Going Concern for 
12 months from the date of signing of the 
2019 financial statements.

Following its review of management’s 
assessment, the Committee and Deloitte 
are satisfied that it is appropriate to 
prepare financial statements on a Going 
Concern basis.

Fair value acquisition accounting of 
Merlon El Fayum Company:
The acquisition of Merlon El Fayum 
Company was announced on 
20 September 2018 and completed on 
2 April 2019. Following completion and 
integration of Merlon El Fayum Company 
(subsequently renamed as Pharos El 
Fayum), management has assessed the fair 
value of the assets and liabilities which were 
assumed as part of the transaction, as well 
as the consideration paid.

The Committee has carefully reviewed the 
composition of management’s calculation, 
including the underlying valuation 
assumptions, and is satisfied that the fair 
valuation and consideration paid are 
reasonable, and that it is in accordance with 
the requirements of IFRS 3 – “Business 
Combinations”. Deloitte concur with this 
fair value assessment.

Reserve Based Lending Facility (RBL)
During 2018, the Group entered into an RBL 
facility for $125m based on the Vietnam 
assets, of which $100m was drawn in 
December 2018 to partially fund the Merlon 
El Fayum Company acquisition.

Under the RBL facility agreement, the 
Group is required to be compliant with 
certain debt covenants for each half year 
ending 30 June and 31 December, as set 
out on page 156.

The Committee has reviewed 
management’s assessments of debt 
covenant calculations and is satisfied that 
the Group is fully compliant. 

Commodity hedging – treasury 
management 

During the year, the Group actively 
managed its exposure to commodity price 
risk by entering into an ongoing 
programme of hedging. The objectives of 
the hedging programme have been to 
protect the Group’s budgetary base case 
to any downward commodity price 
movements and to provide certainty for 
cash flows, ensure compliance with the 
terms of the RBL Facility Agreement, and to 
help mitigate the redetermination risk 
implicit with any RBL.

During the year the Committee focused 
on the following matters:
Environmental, Social and  
Governance (ESG)
The Committee was instrumental in helping 
to accelerate the Group’s existing policies 
and activities aimed at mitigating the 
impacts of climate change. The Committee 
focused on the development of updated 
ESG Action Plans for Egypt, Vietnam and 
the UK; the securing of external 
independent advice and the internal 
gathering of relevant information to comply 
with the requirements of the Task Force on 
Climate-related Financial Disclosures 
(TCFD); the oversight and approval of the 
Group’s annual CDP Climate Change 
Questionnaire in relation to climate change 
mitigation; the establishment of a new 
Board Committee to be responsible for all 
ESG plans, actions and results; the setting 
up of a Group-wide ESG Working Group 
with key managers and employees from 
Egypt, Vietnam and the UK; and a review 
and updated audit of the Group’s fully 
disclosed GHG emissions and discharges.

The Committee expresses its appreciation 
of the high level of engagement of the 
Board, management and employees 
concerning the implementation of 
enhanced ESG Action Plans and 
organisational changes.

Financial reporting and significant 
accounting issues
During the first half of 2019, the Group’s 
accounting policies, in accordance with 
best practice, were reviewed by 
management and the Committee to ensure 
that they remained appropriate for the 
Group’s activities. Following this review, the 
Group’s accounting policies were judged to 
be fully up-to-date and no significant 
changes were recommended to the Board 
by the Committee.

IFRS 16 – “Leases”: During 2019, 
management identified and reviewed all 
lease agreements across the Group, 
including leases in Egypt that were 
assumed on the acquisition of Merlon El 
Fayum Company, and the FPSO Bareboat 
Charter in Vietnam. Based on this review, 
the right of use asset and a corresponding 
lease liability of $1.8m have been 
recognised on the balance sheet as of 
1 January 2019.

The Committee and Deloitte are satisfied 
that the underlying discount rates and 
disclosure are appropriate.

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019A Treasury Committee, comprising the 
Chief Financial Officer as Chair and senior 
members of the Group’s finance team and 
myself as a guest member, convene on a 
regular basis to review the Group’s strategy 
and the open hedge positions to ensure 
that these are still fit for purpose in light of 
current market conditions. Over the course 
of 2019, the hedged positions accumulated 
to cover 27% of the Group’s total revenue 
volumes.

In 2020, the Group seeks to extend this 
coverage further to protect budgetary 
cash flow and ensure compliance with and 
help mitigate redetermination risk on the 
RBL.

Exploration and evaluation assets and 
impairment review
The Committee reviewed the Group’s 
intangible exploration and evaluation assets 
individually in Egypt and Vietnam for any 
indications of impairment, including the 
various indicators specified in paragraphs 
18 to 20 as set out in IFRS 6 – “Exploration 
for and Evaluation of Mineral Resources”.

At both the half year and year end 2019, the 
Committee considered whether various 
indicators of impairment existed, and also 
whether there were issues arising from the 
results of impairment reviews by 
management. Such reviews are carried out 
in relation to both exploration and 
evaluation assets, with the role of the 
Committee being focused on challenging 
management’s underlying assumptions and 
estimates and to judge whether they are 
realistic and justified. Deloitte also 
performed a similar review. Following the 
impairment testing, the Committee 
recommended to the Board that no 
additional impairments be made for the 
current period. 

Producing assets, property, plant and 
equipment (“PP&E) and impairment review
The Committee reviewed individually the 
Group’s oil and gas producing assets 
classified as PP&E on the balance sheet for 
impairment with reference to IAS 36 – 
“Impairment of Assets”. During 2019, the 
Group’s PP&E oil and gas assets comprised 
its two Vietnam producing licences, TGT 
and CNV, as well as its El Fayum 
Concession in Egypt. These are described 
in the operations review on pages 26 to 29. 

This review focused on an updated 
assessment of the recoverable amount  
of each asset compared to their carrying 
value in the accounts. If the recoverable 
amount dropped below the carrying value, 
there would have been an impairment 
charge to reduce the carrying value.  

The Committee considered the various 
assumptions underpinning the assessment 
of the recoverable amount, including 
underlying reserves, commodity prices, 
production rates and discount rates.  
Based on the Group’s approved economic 
assumptions, the Committee recommended 
to the Board that no impairments be made.

Following their detailed review, Deloitte 
were also satisfied that there were no 
impairments reported.

Oil and gas reserves
The Group’s estimates of oil and gas 
reserves have a crucial impact on the 
Financial Statements, especially in relation 
to DD&A and impairment of PP&E assets. 
Oil and gas reserves, as discussed in the 
Risk Management Report on page 52 are 
calculated using best practice and industry 
evaluation techniques which have 
uncertainties in their application.

The Committee reviewed, in conjunction 
with management and Deloitte, the results 
of independent third party assessments 
conducted by ERCE during 2019 for 
Vietnam assets TGT and CNV, and 
subsequently audited by the Group’s 
reserves auditor, RISC Advisory Pty Ltd 
(“RISC”) which are described in the review 
of operations on pages 38 and 39.

In addition, the Committee reviewed, in 
conjunction with management and Deloitte, 
the reserves assessment conducted by 
McDaniel for the El Fayum Concession  
in Egypt.

The various reserves estimates have  
been scrutinised by management, taking 
into account the status of each field’s 
development, to be satisfied that reserves 
estimates are appropriate, that DD&A 
calculations are correct and that rigorous 
impairment testing has been carried out. 
Management also reviewed its estimates  
of future costs (including decommissioning 
costs) associated with producing reserves. 
Reserve estimates are inherently uncertain, 
and are revised over the producing lives  
of oil and gas fields as new reserves 
estimates become available and economic 
conditions evolve.

New country entry/assets – Israel/Egypt
Following detailed analysis and input from 
the Group’s advisers and lending banks, the 
Committee reviewed and approved the 
proposal to enter Israel with reputable 
partners in order to enable the Company 
to apply successfully for eight exploration 
licences. Amongst a range of factors, the 
proposal also took into consideration the 
country’s commitments to a range of 
international good practice regulations 
including adherence to Anti-Slavery and 
Human Rights laws.

Following last year’s detailed analysis and 
input from the Group’s advisers and lending 
banks, the Committee reviewed and 
approved the proposal to invest in Egypt in 
order to enable the Company to proceed 
with the acquisition of Merlon El Fayum 
Company. This included the North Beni 
Suef Concession. 

Internal controls and risk management 
systems
The Group’s internal control framework and 
risk management processes are designed 
to ensure that risk identification, 
assessment and mitigation is properly 
embedded throughout the organisation. 
The risk management approach is designed 
to provide the Committee and the Board 
with reasonable assurance that financial 
irregularities and control weaknesses will 
be identified to mitigate risks that could 
potentially have a material adverse impact 
on the Group’s operations, earnings, 
liquidity and financial prospects.

During 2019, the Group carried out a 
comprehensive review of the overall 
effectiveness of its internal controls 
framework and identified areas that 
required improvement. Such areas  
will be subject to further improvements 
during 2020.

Following the Capital Markets Day in 
October 2019, management held its first 
“Black Hat” risk management workshop with 
the participation of the two Managing 
Directors, myself, all Country Managers 
and Senior Managers in London. This 
workshop was designed to increase 
awareness of risk management across  
the Group.

The Committee considered the workshop 
to be successful and recommended to 
management that further workshops be 
held periodically.

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCE REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONAUDIT AND RISK COMMITTEE REPORT CONTINUED

The Board is primarily responsible for  
the effectiveness of the Group’s internal 
control systems which are monitored  
and improved on an ongoing basis. The 
Committee has been delegated the 
responsibility to monitor and assess the 
effectiveness of the control systems 
operated by management. The external 
auditor, Deloitte, also provides feedback 
and recommendations on controls which 
are brought to the attention of the 
Committee.

Internal controls and risk management 
issues are discussed in detail and reviewed 
for effectiveness at each Committee 
meeting, with a report being provided to 
the Board for approval.

Internal controls focus for 2020
In previous years, based on the size and 
scale of the Group’s activities, an Internal 
Audit function could not be justified. 
However, following the acquisition of the 
Egyptian asset and the Group’s stated 
growth strategy, the Committee 
recommended and the Board approved the 
appointment of KPMG to carry out various 
internal audits. The Committee discussed 
with KPMG and subsequently approved a 
detailed audit plan for 2020. This audit plan 
will be complementary but separate to the 
audit work undertaken by the Group’s 
external auditor, Deloitte.

The internal audit plan for 2020 will focus 
initially on the internal controls around 
certain key processes and the Group’s 
operations in Egypt.

In 2019, internal assurance has been 
handled by the Group management. The 
lack of an Internal Audit function in 2019  
had no impact on the work of the external 
auditors.

The Treasury Committee will continue to 
meet regularly to review the RBL covenants 
compliance and to review the Group’s 
liquidity, hedging requirements and 
investment strategy.

The Committee reviewed and approved the 
related compliance statements set out in 
the Risk Management Report. The 
Committee has also reviewed and approved 
the statements regarding compliance with 
the 2018 UK Corporate Governance Code 
(the “Code”), in the Corporate Governance 
Report on page 82. The Committee 
reviewed and discussed with management 
and the external auditor the Company’s 
relevant financial information prior to 
recommendation for Board approval. This 
included the Financial Statements and other 
material information presented in the annual 

KEY JUDGEMENTS AND ESTIMATES IN FINANCIAL REPORTING

Key judgements  
and estimates  
in financial reporting

Asset carrying  
values and impairment 
testing – including 
judgements on future oil 
pricing, discount rates, 
production profiles, 
reserves and cost 
estimates

Significant risks that 
could potentially impact 
on financial statements 
– including fair valuation 
of assets, reversal of 
impairment of CNV 
producing assets, DD&A 
estimates, override 
management controls

Audit and Risk Committee review 

Outcomes

IFRS 16 – “Leases” –  
all lease contracts across the Group 
were assessed

Estimates included in  
Note 2 to the Financial Statements 
on Page 135

Reviewed the Group’s oil price 
assumptions

Upstream impairment charges were 
reviewed twice during the year

The Group’s long-term price 
assumptions are broadly consistent 
with 2018

No impairments or reversals

Reviewed fair valuation of all assets

Management’s assessment of fair 
value judged as “reasonable and in 
compliance with IFRS 13”– fair value 
assessments

Reviewed DD&A estimates, based on 
reserves reports, units of production 
and future development costs

Management’s assessments of 
DD&A judged to be reasonable 
based on prudent assumptions 

Reviewed override of management 
controls

Under ISA 240 management 
override of controls is presumed 
significant risk. No breaches were 
found. 

Oil reserves accounting 
– including 
management’s 
assumptions for future 
oil prices which have 
a direct impact on the 
estimate of the 
recoverability of asset 
values reported in the 
Financial Statements

Reviewed the Group’s guidelines and 
policy for compliance with oil 
reserves disclosure regulations; 
including governance and control

Reviewed exploration charges

Reviewed at each Committee 
meeting an update on the status of all 
updated estimates

Updated third party estimates 
and independent audit completed, 
with results disclosed in financial 
statements for year end 2019

and half year reports. The Committee 
considered the significant financial 
reporting issues, accounting policies and 
judgements impacting the Financial 
Statements, and the clarity of disclosures. 
The Committee conducted a review of its 
Terms of Reference for best practice, which 
were approved by the Board in early 2019. 
These will be reviewed again during 2020.

The Audit and Risk Committee and the 
Board have carried out a review of the 
effectiveness of the Group’s risk 
management and internal control systems.

Overall, the control environment was 
considered to be operating effectively. We 
recognise the oil and gas industry faces 
many challenges ahead, including the 
technical, financial, environmental and 
political challenges of accessing an 
increasingly scarce resource base and at 
the same time coping with the opposing 
dual challenges of production growth but 
managing transition to a low carbon future.

Our Strategic Framework takes into 
consideration the range of potential risks 
and the nature of their impact on the 
business. The strategic ambitions of the 
Group, achieving our financial and ESG 
objectives, maintaining operational 

effectiveness, ensuring our reputation to 
markets, partners, and stakeholders are all 
assessed in the context of our appetite  
for risk. 

The Board is responsible for maintaining  
a sound system of internal controls to 
safeguard shareholders’ investment and  
the assets of the Company. There is an 
effective internal control function within  
the Company which gives reasonable 
assurance against any material 
misstatement or loss. The Board and 
management will continue to review the 
effectiveness and the adequacy of the 
Company’s internal control systems and 
update such as may be necessary.

Ongoing improvements are planned in 
certain key areas in 2020 including: 

•  Continue integration of the El Fayum 
operations via the dissemination and 
adoption of Group policies and practices

•  Implement the risk-based internal audit 
programme, focusing both on joint 
venture operations and Parent company 
audits 

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019Review of the effectiveness of the Audit 
and Risk Committee
During the year, the Committee has 
undergone a comprehensive review of its 
effectiveness and results were reported to 
the Board. The Committee was considered 
by the Board to be operating effectively 
and in compliance with the 2018 UK 
Corporate Governance Code and 
associated guidance.

John Martin 
Audit and Risk Committee Chair

•  Establish a deeper understanding of the 

Group’s ESG baseline and set key KPIs to 
improve ESG reporting with sponsorship 
from the new ESG Committee and its 
working group and reduce our 
greenhouse gas emissions throughout 
our product life cycle, including 
compliance with TCFD 
recommendations

•  Further improve our Reserve Reporting 
cycle by strengthening both our internal 
technical team, improving co-ordination 
with other disciplines and better support 
from external consultants on reservoir 
modelling, geological and geophysical 
data processing applications

•  Maintain and continually update the 
Group’s delegation of authorities to 
ensure the right mix of collaborative 
participation, empowerment and control 
is set between head office and the joint 
venture operations

Risk assessment
The Committee carried out a detailed risk 
assessment in which it reviewed existing 
risks and identified new risks as 
appropriate. The likelihood and significance 
of each risk was evaluated along with 
proposed mitigating factors and was 
reported to the Board. All new risks or 
changes to existing risks were monitored 
throughout the year and discussed at each 
Committee meeting. The Committee 
maintains a comprehensive bribery risk 
assessment and mitigation procedure to 
ensure that the Group has procedures in 
place to eliminate bribery, and that all 
employees, agents, contractors, and other 
associated persons are made fully aware of 
the Group’s robust policies and procedures 
on a regular basis.

External auditor
Deloitte was appointed as external auditors 
in 2002 and no tender has been conducted 
since that date. In accordance with the 
Code’s guidance concerning external audit 
tendering and rotation, a competitive 
tender process is required at least once 
every 10 years typically. However, taking 
into account the transitional provisions of 
Statutory Auditors and Third Country 
Auditors Regulation 2016 the Group will 
conduct a competitive tender process no 
later than for the 2023 year-end audit. The 
Committee will continue to consider the 
appropriate time frame in which to conduct 
such a tender process, in light of the 
regulatory requirements as well as auditor 
performance, audit quality, and 

independence. David Paterson acts as the 
external audit partner.

The ARC assess the performance of the 
auditors based on their experience, the 
quality of their written and oral 
communication and input from 
management, prior to the 
recommendations of the re-appointment  
of auditors at the AGM.

External auditor – non-audit services
The external auditor is appointed primarily 
to carry out the statutory audit and their 
continued independence and objectivity is 
crucial. In view of their knowledge of the 
business, there may be occasions when the 
external auditor is best placed to undertake 
other services on behalf of the Group. The 
Committee has a policy which sets out 
those non-audit services which the external 
auditor may provide and those which are 
prohibited. Within that policy, any non-audit 
service must be approved by the 
Committee.

Before approving a non-audit service, 
consideration is given to whether the 
nature of the service, materiality of the 
fees, or the level of reliance to be placed on 
it by the Group would create, or appear to 
create, a threat to independence. If it is 
determined that such a threat might arise, 
approval will not be granted unless the 
Committee is satisfied that appropriate 
safeguards are applied to ensure 
independence and that objectivity is not 
impaired. The auditor is prohibited from 
providing any services which might result in 
certain circumstances that have been 
deemed to present such a threat, including 
auditing their own work, taking 
management decisions for the Group or 
creating either a mutuality or conflict of 
interest. The Company has taken steps to 
develop resources and relationships in 
order to establish availability of alternate 
advisers for financial and other matters.

External audit fees
Total audit and non-audit fees in 2019 were 
$333,000 and $107,000 respectively. The 
Committee approved all non-audit services 
provided by the external auditor in 2019.
The principal non-audit fees during 2019 
were $88,000 for the interim review.

The Committee reviews its non-audit 
services policy on an annual basis and 
current policy requires all non-audit 
services to be pre-approved by the 
Committee. It is noted that the Group’s 
policy sets out the permitted services and 
those that are prohibited.

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCE REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONDIRECTORS’ REMUNERATION REPORT

The current Directors’ Remuneration Policy 
is considered to have served the business 
well over this period of time, recognising 
performance on a broad basis and aligning 
the interests of Executive Directors with 
shareholders. 

Rob Gray 
Remuneration Committee Chair

Dear shareholders, 

On behalf of the Board, we are pleased to 
present the Directors’ Remuneration 
Report for the financial year ended 
31 December 2019. This report has been 
prepared in accordance with section 421 of 
the Companies Act 2006 and Schedule 8 
of the Large and Medium-sized Companies 
and Groups (Accounts and Reports) 
Regulations 2008 (as amended).

Our Directors’ remuneration policy was 
renewed at the 2017 AGM with 99% 
support from our shareholders. In line with 
the requirements of applicable law, we 
intend to put the Policy to a binding 
shareholder vote at least once every three 
years. Accordingly, we will be proposing a 
new Directors’ Remuneration Policy to 
shareholders for approval at the 
2020 AGM.

The Directors’ Remuneration Policy 
review
The current Directors’ Remuneration Policy 
(the “Policy”) is an extension of the 
approach which has been used for over a 
decade, based around the combination of 
competitive fixed pay, an annual bonus with 
substantial deferral and a long-term 
incentive plan award based on relative value 
creation. This is considered to have served 
the business well over this period of time, 
recognising performance on a broad basis 
and aligning the interests of Executive 
Directors with shareholders. The approach 
is cascaded further down into the 
organisation and is now truly embedded 
into the business culture. 

With the acquisition of assets in Egypt 
expanding and diversifying our resource 
base, the Company is now well-positioned 
to take advantage of growth opportunities 
which will generate value for our 
shareholders. 

As a Remuneration Committee we believe 
that the current Policy, with some minor 
amendments, will continue to support this 
strategy and therefore the proposed new 
Policy is broadly a continuation of our 
current approach. However, we have 
proposed some changes to recognise 
developments in governance practice over 
the last few years and to better align with 
the shareholder experience. In summary 
these changes are:

•  Base salary – no changes to Policy. 
Future increases will still normally be 
aligned with those provided to the wider 
workforce (but there is a one-off 
reallocation of base salary amongst the 
Executive Directors (explained below).

•  Benefits – no changes are proposed in 
practice although we have seen from 
potential acquisitions that the benefits 
cap could potentially be constraining and 
plan to add some additional flexibility (to 
be used in exceptional circumstances), 
when recruiting internationally mobile 
Executives.

•  Pension – lower the Policy limit from 20% 
of salary to 15% of salary. In practice, this 
has no impact on the current Executive 
Directors who are entitled to a 15% of 
salary contribution, which is fully aligned 
with that offered to the wider UK 
workforce. 

•  Annual bonus – no change to quantum 

or structure. Continue to measure 
performance on a balanced scorecard of 
measures which reflect strategic, 
operational, financial and HSES and CR 
objectives for that particular year. 
Deferral will continue to apply to 
one-third of any bonus amount with the 
deferred element held in shares for two 
years (or the after-tax level so held if 
taxed upfront) and at risk of forfeiture on 
resignation. You will be aware that we 
have, in recent years, sought to improve 
the disclosure of how the balanced 
scorecard operates. This will continue 
and we look to add more objectively 
measurable (but still strategically 
relevant) targets to the extent that this is 
consistent with the Company’s strategic 
objectives.

•  LTIP – no change to maximum quantum 
(maximum annual award of 200% of 
salary) or structure (three-year vesting 
period with a further two-year holding 
period). The Policy will reserve the 
normal discretion as regards setting 
performance conditions each year. 

•  Shareholding guidelines – no change to 
quantum (200% of salary), with that level 
(or the actual holding if less) required to 
be held for one year post-cessation and 
100% of salary required to be held for a 
period of up to two years after cessation 
of employment unless the Committee 
exceptionally determines that it is 
appropriate to release this requirement. 
The Committee will ensure it has 
appropriate enforcement mechanisms 
through requiring any future deferred 
bonuses and LTIP vestings from future 
grants to be lodged with the Company in 
escrow until a sufficient holding has been 

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019Table A: Remuneration Committee 
meeting attendance during 2019

Role of Committee 

Committee member

2019 attendance

Rob Gray*

John Martin*

++++

++++

Marianne Daryabegui*1 +++

António Monteiro*²

+

+  Attended. 
* 
1  Appointed as Director and member of 

Independent NED.

Remuneration Committee on 15 March 2019.

2  Retired as a Director March 2019.

built up. It should be noted that in 
addition to the above proposal, the 
default position for outstanding deferred 
bonuses and LTIP awards on cessation 
for a good leaver remains to allow them 
to run to their normal vesting date. This 
forms an extra post-cessation holding 
requirement and the combination is 
considered to adequately reflect the 
spirit of the Code with a material 
exposure to the longer-term sustainable 
performance of the Company.

As announced at the Company’s recent 
Capital Markets Day, we consider that the 
current three Executive Directors 
undertake their roles as something of a 
triumvirate and, therefore, Ed Story as our 
Group CEO, volunteered to split part of his 
base salary in excess of that of his two 
colleagues equally with them (so all 
Executive Directors now have a base salary 
of c.£540k (or $702k) effective as at 
1 January 2020). This is considered to best 
reflect the scope of responsibilities of the 
three Executive Directors and does not 
result in any material aggregate 
cost increase. 

As part of the review process the 
Remuneration Committee considered 
introducing additional performance metrics 
for the next LTIP award. However, following 
shareholder feedback, it was decided that  
the 2020 LTIP would remain subject solely  
to a relative TSR metric. However, the 
Committee will keep in mind the use of other 
performance metrics for future awards and 
these will be the subject of consultation with 
major shareholders as necessary. 

The Remuneration Committee is responsible for 
setting the remuneration of the Chair and the 
Executives, and is responsible for appointing any 
consultants it may engage in carrying out its duty.

At the same time as making these changes, 
we have reviewed our incentive plan 
documentation to ensure it remains fully 
compliant with regulatory and governance 
developments. In order to ensure there is 
maximum enforceability for recovery and 
withholding provisions (i.e. malus and 
clawback), we have amended our plan  
rules to now include an additional 
insolvency trigger. 

Both the annual bonus and LTIP are 
operated on a discretionary basis and the 
Committee has no limitations to its ability 
to override the formulaic outcomes if 
considered appropriate. The Committee 
has used this discretion in the past (such as 
the scale back of 2016 annual bonus 
outcome and the 2019 annual bonus 
outcome on pages 109 to 111) and will 
continue to monitor its appropriateness in 
light of a range of factors including the 
experience of stakeholders during the year. 

The proposed changes in the Policy were 
the subject of consultation with our major 
shareholders and proxy agencies during 
the course of the year. This consultation 
consisted of contacting shareholders 
covering approximately 70% of the share 
register with a number of meetings and 
follow-up discussions as required. 
Feedback from these discussions was 
helpful in finalising the Policy and the 
Committee wishes to thank all those who 
gave valuable time to the process.

How performance was reflected in the 
pay of our Executive Directors
As reported throughout the Strategic Report, 
2019 has seen significant progress made in 
repositioning the Company to a full-cycle 
and growth-oriented E&P company of 
scale. The successful integration of Merlon 
significantly increases Group reserves, 
resources and production, and importantly 
diversifies the base from which the Company 
can grow production further. 

The year saw a number of performance 
highlights, which are set out in page 2 and in 
more detail on pages 26 to 45. The 
Committee considered in some detail  
the achievement against the 2019 KPIs  
set in the annual bonus. The formulaic 
assessment resulted in a bonus outcome  
of 70% for each Executive Director. The 
Committee then took account of the wider 
performance both of the Company and the 
sector in terms of the shareholder 
experience and also noted the slow start to 
the ramp up of production levels in Egypt. 
The result of this review was a decision to 
use discretion to reduce the bonus outcome 
to 50% of maximum. The Committee 
believes the final result is a fair reward for 
the corporate and personal performance 
delivered over the financial year. 

The 2017 LTIP which was due to vest in 
January/February 2020 will lapse through  
a failure to meet the relative TSR 
performance condition. 

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Outlook for 2020
As noted above there will be a reallocation 
of base salaries amongst the three 
Executive Directors so that they are all paid 
the same. 

The annual bonus will be operated in the 
same manner as for 2019, albeit the 
performance measures and weightings 
have been rebalanced to reflect the key 
priorities for this financial year.

The 2020 LTIP will be the same as for 2019, 
with performance based on relative TSR 
performance which is considered to be  
the most meaningful metric for an E&P 
company at this stage of maturity. However, 
the Company will revert to a more standard 
vesting schedule, with 25% of the award 
vesting for median ranking, rising on a 
straight-line basis to full vesting for upper 
quartile ranking (previously full vesting was 
achieved for an upper 16th percentile 
ranking). The use of other performance 
measures, such as ROCE, will be kept  
under review for future awards. 

The Committee is cognisant of the current 
share price and the impact this would have 
on the number of awards granted under 
the LTIP. Therefore, for the 2020 LTIP , we 
will use the same share price as used for 
the 2019 LTIP to determine the number of 
awards to be granted. 

Conclusion
The Committee believes that the limited 
changes above will bring the Policy into line 
with developments in corporate governance 
and will continue to support the business 
strategy. 

We look forward to receiving your support 
at the upcoming AGM.

Finally, this is my first report as the Chair  
of the Committee after I took over its 
chairmanship from António Monteiro.  
I want to thank him on your behalf for  
his hard work over the last nine years.

Rob Gray 
Chairman of the Remuneration Committee

Policy Report (Unaudited)

This Remuneration Policy will be effective 
from the date of the 2020 AGM, subject to 
shareholder approval at that meeting. The 
Policy is intended to apply for a period of 
three years. However, the Committee 
monitors the Remuneration Policy on a 
continuing basis including consideration of 
evolving market practice and relevant 
guidance; shareholder views and results of 
previous voting; policies applied to the 
wider employee base; and with due regard 
to the current economic climate. Should 
the Committee resolve that the 
Remuneration Policy should be revised, 
such revisions will be subject to a binding 
shareholder vote.

The overarching aim is to operate a 
Remuneration Policy which rewards senior 
Executives at an appropriate level for 
delivering against the Company’s annual 
and longer-term strategic objectives. The 
Policy is intended to create strong 
alignment between Executive Directors and 
shareholders through a heavy focus on the 
use of equity. The Committee is 
comfortable that the structure and 
operation of the Policy does not create any 
environmental, social and corporate 
governance matters and is managed within 
an acceptable risk profile.

The decision-making process
When reviewing the Policy, the Committee 
involved the use of our external advisers to 
provide data and opinion on market 
practice and developments in corporate 
governance. The Committee also called 
upon the Executive Directors to provide 
business strategy and wider employee 
context. However, the Committee made its 
decisions based on the outcomes of its 
own deliberations and taking into account 
feedback provided from shareholders and 
proxy agencies who were consulted at an 
early stage. 

When considering the development of the 
new Policy, the Committee was mindful of 
how it would address the six factors  
set out in the UK Corporate Governance 
Code and which are explained in more 
detail below: 

Clarity 
•  The proposed Policy has a clear 

objective: to enable the Company to 
recruit, retain and motivate high calibre 
individuals to deliver long-term 
sustainable performance which benefits 
all stakeholders

•  The Policy itself is in line with standard 
UK market practice, and is an update of 
the current Policy, so should be well 
understood by shareholders and 
participants

•  The Policy is fully embedded into the 
business, so it is well understood by 
participants and is managed efficiently 
from an administrative perspective

•  The terms of the Policy are clearly 

described in this Report, including full 
disclosure on limits, measures and 
discretions. There should be no 
ambiguity on how it is intended to be 
operated

•  Full retrospective disclosure of the 

relevant performance assessments and 
outcomes is provided for shareholders 
to consider

•  Full prospective disclosure is provided in 
relation to LTIP awards, including the 
award levels, performance measures  
and targets

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019Simplicity
•  The Policy includes a standard annual 
bonus plan and a single LTIP so the 
incentive arrangements are considered 
easy to communicate 

•  Payments are made either in cash or via 

Company shares. No artificial or complex 
structures are used to facilitate the 
operation of the incentive plans

•  The rationale for each element of the 
Policy is clearly explained in the Policy 
table and links to the overall Company 
strategy

Risk
•  Relevant individual and plan limits prevent 
excessive outcomes under the annual 
bonus or LTIP

•  Regular interaction with the Audit and 
Risk Committee ensures relevant risk 
implications are understood when setting 
or assessing performance targets 

•  Periodic risk reviews to ensure the Policy 
remains within an acceptable risk profile 
and that the performance measures 
used do not incentivise or reward for 
inappropriate behaviour

•  Any unintended consequences of a 
particular performance metric are 
considered when assessing its 
appropriateness

•  Comprehensive clawback and malus 
provisions are in place across all 
incentive plans and the Committee’s 
ability to use its discretion to override 
formulaic outcomes is considered an 
important control to prevent 
inappropriate reward outcomes

•  Flight risk and succession issues are 

considered as part of the wider remit of 
the Remuneration Committee and the 
Nominations Committee, and are 
considered on at least an annual basis, 
generally as part of the annual pay review

Predictability
•  The possible reward outcomes are 

quantified and reviewed at the outset of 
the performance period. The illustrations 
provided in the Policy section of the DRR 
clearly show the potential scenarios of 
performance and the resulting pay 
outcomes which could be expected

•  Relevant individual and plan limits prevent 

excessive outcomes 

•  Regular monitoring of performance by 
the Committee ensures that there are 
“no surprises” at the end of period 
assessment

Proportionality
•  Incentives only pay-out if strong 

performance has been delivered by the 
Executive Directors

•  The performance measures used have a 
direct link to the KPIs of the business and 
there is a clear separation between those 
used in the annual bonus and LTIP

•  Appropriate underpins can be (and have 
been) used to ensure that any pay-outs 
are affordable based on financial 
performance

•  The Committee has the discretion to 

override formulaic outcomes if they are 
deemed inappropriate in light of the 
wider performance of the Company and 
considering the experience of 
stakeholders

Alignment to culture
•  Incentive structures incentivise and 

reward for strong performance

•  They do not reward poor performance

•  The Policy seeks to retain Executives to 

deliver long-term, sustainable 
performance which benefits all 
stakeholders

•  The relevant discretions in the Policy are 
intended to ensure that performance is 
assessed on a “like for like basis” and that 
participants are rewarded for “doing the 
right thing” for the Company, not for 
themselves

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCE REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONDIRECTORS’ REMUNERATION REPORT CONTINUED

Policy table for Executive Directors

The table below summarises our Policy for each component of Executive Directors’ Remuneration and notes any key changes from the 
Policy previously approved at the 2017 AGM and which is in operation until the approval of the new Policy at the 2020 AGM:

Fixed pay
Base salary
Core element of remuneration set at a sufficient level to attract and retain people of the necessary calibre to shape and execute the 
Company’s strategy.

Operation

Maximum

Performance criteria

Key changes

• 

In compliance with the latest 
regulatory guidance we have 
included a fixed salary cap. 
All caps have been included 
to comply with the 
regulations and do not 
constitute an aspiration

•  Contractual fixed cash amount 

•  Any salary adjustments will 

•  N/A

normally be in line with those 
of the wider workforce
•  The Committee retains 

discretion to award higher 
increases in certain 
circumstances such as 
increased scope and 
responsibility of the role, or 
in the case of new Executive 
Directors who are positioned 
on a lower salary initially, as 
they gain experience over 
time. In these circumstances 
a base salary increase will 
not exceed the CEO’s 
previous salary of $924,000

paid monthly

•  Particular care is given in  

fixing the appropriate salary level 
considering that incentive pay  
is generally set at a fraction or 
multiple of base salary
•  The Committee takes into  

account a number of factors  
when setting salaries, including  
(but not limited to):
•  Size and scope of individual’s 

responsibilities

•  Skills and experience of the 

individual

•  Performance of the Company 

and the individual

•  Appropriate market data.
•  Pay and conditions elsewhere  

in Pharos

•  Base salaries are normally 

reviewed annually

•  Results of benchmarking exercises 
are monitored for indications of 
potential unwarranted upward 
ratcheting

Benefits
Purpose and link to strategy
To provide Executive Directors with market competitive benefits consistent with the role.

Operation

Maximum

Performance criteria

Key changes

•  Executive Directors receive 

benefits which may include (but 
are not limited to) medical care 
and insurance, permanent health 
insurance, life assurance cover, 
critical illness cover, travel benefits, 
expatriate benefits, car benefits 
and relocation expenses
•  Reasonable business related 
expenses will be reimbursed 
(including any tax payable thereon)

•  N/A

•  Benefits are positioned at an 
appropriate market level for 
the nature and location of 
the role. Whilst the actual 
value of benefits may vary 
from year to year based on 
third party costs, it is 
intended that the maximum 
annual value will not exceed 
$250,000 or £200,000, per 
Directors’ base currency
In addition to the above cap, 
the Company may 
contribute to relocation 
expenses up to 100% of 
salary

• 

Pension
Purpose and link to strategy
To provide retirement benefits consistent with the role

•  Pension benefits are delivered 

•  15% of base salary  

•  N/A

through contributions to Pharos’ 
money purchase plan up to 
relevant plan limits and/or a cash 
supplement

per annum

100

• 

In compliance with the latest 
regulatory guidance we have 
included a maximum value 
cap on benefits. All caps 
have been included to 
comply with the regulations 
and do not constitute an 
aspiration

•  Maximum pension 

contribution has been 
reduced to 15% of salary, 
which is fully aligned with 
that offered to the wider 
workforce

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019Variable pay
Annual bonus
Purpose and link to strategy
Incentivises and rewards for the delivery of the strategic plan on an annual basis.

Operation

Maximum

Performance criteria

Key changes

•  150% of base salary per 

annum, including cash and 
deferred components at the 
discretion of the Committee.

•  Payments are based on 

performance in the relevant 
financial year.

•  At the beginning of the year, the 

Committee sets objectives which 
it considers are critical to the 
delivery of the business strategy.

•  Performance against these key 

strategic objectives is assessed by 
the Committee at the end of the 
year.

•  The Committee retains the 

discretion to amend the bonus 
payout (negatively or positively) to 
ensure it reflects the performance 
of either the individual or the 
Company.

•  One-third of any bonus payout is 
subject to deferral into Pharos 
shares under the Deferred Share 
Bonus Plan. 

•  Bonus deferral to require 

that one-third of any bonus 
is delivered under the 
Deferred Share Bonus Plan. 
This is now part of the formal 
Policy, having been operated 
on a voluntary basis for a 
number of years. This 
ensures Directors’ interests 
remain closely aligned with 
shareholders.

•  The annual bonus is based on individual 
and corporate performance during the 
year.

•  Corporate goals are set annually and 
may include monitored measures for 
particular projects; portfolio objectives; 
corporate strategic goals; safety, social 
and environmental measures; financial 
measures; and other measures as may 
be deemed appropriate and relevant to 
the period for delivery of the business 
strategy.
If the Committee determines that a 
minimum level of performance has not 
been achieved, no bonus will be 
payable. Thereafter the bonus will begin 
paying out, up to the maximum of 150% 
of salary.

• 

•  The Committee determines the 

appropriate weighting of the metrics  
each year.

LTIP
Purpose and link to strategy
Incentivises and rewards for the Company’s strategic plan of building shareholder value

Operation

Maximum

Performance criteria

Key changes

•  Typically a conditional award of 

•  Usually 200% of base salary 

per annum
In circumstances which  
the Committee determines 
to be exceptional, annual 
awards of up to 400% of 
base salary per annum may 
be made

shares or a nil price option is made 
annually, normally in December,  
in the course of the annual  
review cycle

• 

•  Vesting of the awards is 

dependent on the achievement  
of performance targets, which 
 are typically measured over a 
three-year performance period
•  Awards (post of tax) will also be 

subject to a two-year post-vesting 
holding period during which  
they cannot be sold (except in 
exceptional circumstances and 
with the Committee’s prior 
approval)

•  Formalising the previously 

agreed inclusion of a 
post-vesting holding period 
on vested awards

•  The Share Option Plan which 
previously featured in the 
Remuneration Policy, but 
was not used for Executive 
Directors, has now been 
excluded from this Policy

•  Awards vest based on performance 
against financial, operational and/or 
share price measures, as set by the 
Committee, which are aligned with the 
long-term strategic objectives of Pharos

•  No less than 50% of the award will be 
based on share price measures. The 
remainder will be based on financial, 
operational measures

•  For ‘threshold’ levels of performance, 
25% of the award vests. 100% of the 
award will vest for maximum 
performance. Pro-rating applies 
between these points and between 
ranking positions

•  The Committee may reduce LTIP 

vesting outcomes (including to zero), 
based on the result of testing the 
performance condition, if it considers 
the potential outcome to be 
inconsistent with the performance of 
the Company, business or individual 
during the performance period.  
Any use of such discretion would  
be detailed in the Annual Report  
on Remuneration

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Shareholding guidelines
Purpose and link to strategy
Further increases alignment between Executive Directors and shareholders.

Operation

Maximum

Performance criteria

Key changes

• 

Introduction of a 
post-cessation shareholding 
guideline

•  The Board has a policy of requiring 

•  N/A

•  N/A

Executive Directors to build a 
minimum shareholding in Pharos 
shares equivalent to 200% of 
salary

•  A post cessation shareholding 
guideline will operate from the 
approval of this Policy. Executive 
Directors will be expected to retain 
the lower of actual shares held and 
shares equal to 200% of salary for 
one year post-cessation and 100% 
of salary for up to two years 
post-cessation (unless the 
Committee exceptionally 
determines that it is appropriate to 
release this requirement). Pharos 
shares which vest from future 
deferred bonus and LTIP awards 
will be retained until a sufficient 
holding has been built up

Notes to the Policy table
Discretion
The Committee reserves the right to make any remuneration payments and payments for loss of office (including exercising any 
discretions available to it in connection with such payments) that are not in line with the Policy set out above where the terms of the 
payment were agreed:

•  Before the Policy came into effect; or

•  At a time when the relevant individual was not an Executive Director of the Company and, in the opinion of the Committee,  

the payment was not in consideration for the individual becoming an Executive Director of the Company

For these purposes, (i) ‘payments’ includes the Committee satisfying awards of variable remuneration and (ii) an award over shares  
is “agreed” at the time the award is granted.

The Committee will operate the annual bonus, LTIP and share option plan in accordance with the relevant plan rules. In line with best 
practice the Committee retains discretion on the operation and administration of these plans, including as follows:

•  Dividend equivalents may be paid on awards up to the point of vesting

•  Awards will be subject to recovery and withholding provisions and therefore may be reduced at the discretion of the Committee  

for instances of serious misconduct, an error in calculation, a misstatement of the Company’s financial results or for serious 
reputational damage to the Company (as determined by the Committee). Provisions will apply for a period of three years from  
date of payment/vesting

•  The Committee may settle an award in cash

•  In the event of a variation of share capital or any other exceptional event which, in the reasonable opinion of the Committee, requires 

an adjustment, the Committee may adjust the number of shares or the exercise price

•  If an event occurs which results in the performance conditions for outstanding incentive plans being no longer appropriate, then the 

Committee may adjust the measures and/or targets, with the caveat that they will, in the opinion of the Committee, be no less 
challenging to achieve

Any use of the above discretions would, where relevant, be explained in the Annual Report on Remuneration and may, as appropriate, be 
the subject of consultation with the Company’s major shareholders.

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019Takeover or other equivalent corporate event
On a takeover or other equivalent corporate event, outstanding deferred bonus awards will vest in full as soon as practicable after the 
date of the event, unless the Committee determines otherwise. For outstanding LTIP and share option awards, on a takeover or other 
equivalent corporate event, generally the performance period will end on the date of the event. The Committee will determine the extent 
to which performance conditions have been achieved at this point, taking into account relevant factors as appropriate. Unless the 
Committee determines otherwise, awards will generally vest on a time pro-rata basis taking into account the shortened performance 
period. Alternatively, outstanding LTIP and share option awards may be subject to rollover, with the agreement of the acquiring company.

Minor changes
The Committee may make minor amendments to the Policy set out in this report (for regulatory, exchange control, tax or administrative 
purposes or to take account of a change in legislation) without obtaining shareholder approval for the amendment.

Performance measures and target setting
The Policy table for Executive Directors above describes the policy for setting performance measures used for the annual bonus and 
LTIP, which are intended to ensure that executives are appropriately focused on the successful delivery of the strategic plan over both 
the short and medium term. When setting the relevant performance targets, the Committee will take into account a number of internal 
and external reference points that are linked to Pharos’ strategic priorities, as well as the economic environment.

Illustration of Policy
The charts below illustrate the application of the Remuneration Policy set out in the Policy table for the Executive Directors.

ILLUSTRATION OF APPLICATION OF REMUNERATION POLICY

5000

4000

3000

2000

1000

$4,148

17%

$3,446

41%

34%

31%

25%

$1,867
19%

28%

$989

100%

53%

0

Min

Target

28%

Max

24%

Max 
with growth

$4,012

17%

$3,310

42%

35%

32%

26%

26%

Max

22%

Max 
with growth

$1,731
20%

30%

50%

$853

100%

Min

Target

$4,017

17%

$3,315

42%

35%

32%

26%

26%

Max

22%

Max 
with growth

$1,736
20%

30%

50%

$858

100%

Min

Target

Total Fixed Remuneration

Annual Bonus

PSP

Share price growth

CEO

MD

MD & CFO

The assumptions used for the above charts are shown on the next page. 

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Levels of 
performance

Assumptions

Performance criteria

Fixed pay

All scenarios

•  Total fixed pay comprises base salary, benefits and pension
•  Base salary – effective as at 1 January 2020
•  Benefits – value received by each Director in 2019
•  Pension – 15% of salary, the benefit currently set for all Executive Directors

Variable pay

Minimum performance

•  No payout under the annual bonus and no vesting under the LTIP

Performance in line with expectations

•  50% of the maximum payout under the annual bonus (i.e. 75% of salary)
•  25% vesting under the LTIP (i.e. 50% of salary)

Maximum performance

•  100% of maximum payout under the annual bonus (i.e. 150% of salary)
•  100% of maximum vesting under the LTIP (i.e. 200% of salary)

Maximum performance with growth

•  As above but with 50% share price growth assumed on the LTIP vesting

Policy table for Non-Executive Directors

Component

Pharos’ approach

Chairman fees

•  Comprises an all-inclusive fee for Board and Committee positions
•  Determined by the Remuneration Committee and approved by the Board

Non- Executive 
Director

•  Comprises a basic fee in respect of their Board duties
•  Further fees may be paid in respect of additional Board or Committee roles
•  Recommended by the Chair and Chief Executive Officer and approved by the Board

Other

• 

In the event of a temporary but material increase in the time commitment required, fees  
may be increased on a pro-rata basis to reflect the additional workload

•  Reasonable business related expenses will be reimbursed (including any tax payable thereon)

No Director plays a role in determining their own remuneration. The Committee consults with the CEO in determining the Chairman’s 
fee. Fees for all Non-Executive Directors reflect the time commitment and responsibilities of the role, and are set at a level sufficient  
to attract and retain individuals with the required skills, experience and knowledge to allow the Board to carry out its duties. The fees  
set out above are the sole element of Non-Executive Director remuneration. They are not eligible for participation in the Company’s 
incentive or pension plans.

The fees have been set within the aggregate limits set out in the Company’s Articles of Association (currently £800,000) and approved 
by shareholders.

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019Approach to remuneration on recruitment

Principles
On the appointment of a new Executive Director, we seek to apply the following principles when determining the remuneration 
arrangements:

•  The package should be competitive to facilitate the recruitment of individuals of the calibre needed to shape and execute Pharos’ 

strategy and build shareholder value

•  The Committee reserves the right not to apply the caps contained within the Policy table for fixed pay, either on joining or for  
any subsequent review within the Policy period, although, in practice, the Committee does not envisage exceeding these caps

•  The Committee will consider all relevant factors as appropriate. This may include, but is not limited to, the calibre and experience  

of the individual, market practice and the current Remuneration Policy. The Committee will be mindful that any arrangements must  
be structured in the interests of Pharos’ shareholders without paying more than is necessary

•  Typically, a new appointment will have (or be transitioned onto) the same framework that applies to other Executive Directors as set out 

in the Policy table above. Salaries would reflect the skills and experience of the individual, and may be set at a level to allow future 
salary progression to reflect development and performance in the role

•  An Executive Director may initially be hired on a contract requiring up to 24 months’ notice which then reduces pro-rata over the 

course of the first year of the contract, to requiring not more than 12 months’ notice

•  It would be expected that the structure and quantum of the variable pay elements would reflect those set out in the Policy table  

for Executive Directors

•  Depending on the timing of appointment it may be necessary to set different performance measures and targets to those used for 

existing Executive Directors, although this would only be expected to operate for the remainder of the first financial year of 
appointment

In the remuneration report following appointment, the Committee will explain the rationale for any such relevant arrangements.

The Committee retains discretion to make appropriate remuneration decisions outside the standard policy to meet the individual 
circumstances of recruitment when:

•  An interim appointment is made to fill an Executive Director role on a short-term basis

•  Exceptional circumstances require that the Chair or a Non-Executive Director takes on an executive function on a short-term basis

Buy-outs
To facilitate recruitment, the Committee may make compensatory payments and/or awards for any remuneration arrangements subject 
to forfeit on leaving a previous employer. Such payments or awards could include cash as well as performance and non-performance 
related share awards, and would be in such form as the Committee considers appropriate taking into account all relevant factors such  
as the form, expected value, timing, impact of any performance conditions and the anticipated vesting of the forfeited remuneration. 
There is not a specified limit on the value of such awards, but the estimated value awarded would be equivalent to the value forfeited.

Recruitment of Non-Executive Directors
On the appointment of a new Chair or Non-Executive Director, remuneration arrangements will be consistent with the Policy  
set out in this report.

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Policy on payment for loss of office
Where an Executive Director leaves employment, the Committee’s approach to determining any payment for loss of office will normally 
be based on the following principles:

•  The Committee’s objective is to find an outcome which is in the best interests of both Pharos and its shareholders while taking into 

account the specific circumstances of cessation of employment

•  The Committee must satisfy any contractual obligations agreed with the Executive Director. This is dependent on the contractual 

obligations (i) not being in contradiction with the Policy set out in this report, or (ii) if so, not having been entered into on a date later 
than 27 June 2012, in accordance with the relevant legislation

•  The Committee may seek to compromise any claims made against the Company in relation to a termination and reserves the right  

to pay reasonable legal fees and/or for outplacement services if considered necessary

•  The Committee may make an annual bonus payment for the year of cessation depending on the reason for leaving. Typically,  

the Committee will take into consideration the period served during the year and the individual’s performance up to cessation.  
Any such payment is at the discretion of the Committee

•  The treatment of outstanding share awards will be governed by the relevant plan rules as set out in the table shown below

Plan

Deferred bonus

LTIP and share option plan

Automatic good leaver

Treatment for good leaver

Treatment for all other reasons

Ill-health, injury or disability

•  Death
• 
•  Redundancy
•  Retirement with agreement of 

the employer

•  Any other reason as determined 

at the discretion of the 
Committee

Ill-health, injury or disability

•  Death
• 
•  Redundancy
•  Retirement with agreement  

of the employer

•  Any other reason as determined 

at the discretion of the 
Committee

•  Awards will usually vest  

on the normal vesting date
•  The Committee retains the 

discretion to accelerate vesting 
so that awards vest as soon as 
practicable following cessation

•  Awards will normally lapse in full 
(unless otherwise determined by 
the Committee)

•  For grants under the share 
option plan, vested options 
 will remain exercisable for  
six months

•  All other awards will normally 
lapse in full (unless otherwise 
determined by the Committee)

•  The Committee will determine 

the proportion of the award that 
will vest, normally taking into 
account the achievement of the 
relevant performance conditions 
at the vesting date and the time 
elapsed between the date of 
grant and cessation of 
employment

•  The vesting date for such award 
will normally be the original 
vesting date, although the 
Committee has the flexibility to 
determine that awards can vest 
upon cessation of employment

•  Where options are granted, 

vesting options will be 
exercisable within a period of six 
months, or 12 months in the 
event of death, commencing on 
the date on which such options 
vest (being either the date of 
cessation or the original vesting 
date as determined by the 
Committee as per above)
•  The Committee has the 

discretion to vary the period  
in which vested options are 
exercisable

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019Service contracts
Executive Directors’ contracts are for an indefinite period and are terminable by either party on giving one year’s notice, which may be 
satisfied with a payment in lieu of notice. The contracts do not contain specific termination provisions.

The Committee has a duty to prevent the requirement to make payments that are not strictly merited, and endorses the principle of 
mitigation of damages on early termination of a service contract. Any payment on early termination will be assessed on the basis of the 
particular circumstances, but in any event will not be in respect of any period beyond the notice period specified by the contract.

The Non-Executive Directors’ appointments are terminable at the will of the parties but are envisaged to establish an initial term of three 
years after which they will be reviewed annually.

The Executive Directors’ service contracts and the Non-Executive Directors’ letters of appointment are available at the Company’s 
registered office. 

Consideration of pay and employment conditions elsewhere in Pharos and differences in Remuneration Policy for Executive 
Directors compared with other employees
The Committee monitors the remuneration of senior management and makes recommendations as deemed appropriate. Pay and 
employment conditions elsewhere in the Company are taken into account to ensure the relationship between the pay of the Executive 
Directors and its employees is consistent throughout the Company. Similar benchmarking techniques are applied to non-Board 
employees using relevant market data and the Committee monitors staff remuneration packages during the review of Executive 
Directors’ remuneration packages.

All eligibale employees have the same access to the same pension contribution rate (15% of salary) and access to a similar level of 
benefits. 

As for our Executive Directors, it is intended that a meaningful amount of employee pay is weighted towards variable remuneration. All 
employees participate in the annual bonus plan, with the emphasis between corporate and individual goals dependent on the role and its 
level of direct influence on Pharos’ Group-wide results. All employees have an opportunity to share in the success of the Company 
through participation in the share option plan which, for this purpose, is operated similarly to an all employee share scheme. The 
Executive Directors do not receive awards under the share option plan. Individuals with the greatest ability to directly influence Pharos’ 
Group-wide results may also receive additional discretionary awards under the share option plan or the LTIP.

The Committee does not formally consult with employees when formulating the Remuneration Policy for Executive Directors, but during 
the course of the year, Non-Executive Directors have attended various workforce engagement sessions where, amongst other issues, 
executive pay has been discussed.

Consideration of shareholder views
The Committee takes an active interest in shareholder views and these help shape the structure of the Directors’ remuneration 
arrangements at Pharos. In advance of any significant changes in the Policy or its operation, the Committee will liaise with major 
shareholders (and relevant proxy agencies) to seek out their views. Any feedback is shared with the Committee and will form part  
of the consideration when finalising our approach. 

The Committee also monitors published shareholder guidelines and will incorporate further requirements and best practice features 
 as appropriate.

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Annual Report on Remuneration 

(Audited section)

Single total figure of remuneration
The table below sets out the total remuneration in respect of qualifying services for both Executive and Non-Executive Directors for the 
financial year 2019. It also provides comparative figures for 2019:

Fees/salary  
$000’s

Benefits 1
 $000’s

Bonus  
$000’s

LTIP   
$000’s

Pension  
$000’s

Executive

E Story

J Brown 2

M Watts 2

Non-Executives 

R de Sousa

E Contini

R Gray

A Monteiro*

J Martin 

M Daryabegui*

Total

924

561

561

250

75

150

37

100

59

182

46

51

14

–

2

3

–

–

693

428

428

–

–

–

–

–

–

2,717

298

1,549

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

The benefits receivable by Executive Directors include private medical insurance, permanent health insurance, life assurance cover, critical illness cover, travel and expatriate 
benefits and car benefits. The benefits column for Non-Executive Directors includes taxable travel and accommodation expenses to attend Board functions in the year, and the 
tax payable thereon, in accordance with HMRC guidance.
1  The near-term average exchange rate at the end of the performance period of 1.31 has been used to convert share price from GB pounds to US dollars. 
2  Executive Directors’ fees and the salaries of Jann Brown and Dr Mike Watts are set in GB pounds and are reported in US dollars at the annual average exchange rate.
*  Fees paid to the Executive and Non-Executive Directors are in proportion with their dates of service.

307

4,871

Fees/salary  
$000’s

Benefits 1
 $000’s

Bonus  
$000’s

LTIP   
$000’s

Pension  
$000’s

Executive

E Story

J Brown 2

M Watts 2

Non-Executives 

R de Sousa

E Contini

R Gray

A Monteiro

J Martin *

O Barbaroux *

Total

924

601

601

254

67

133

73

41

29

228

81

218

–

–

–

4

–

1

971

620

620

–

–

–

–

–

–

2,723

532

2,211

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

319

5,785

The benefits receivable by Executive Directors include private medical insurance, permanent health insurance, life assurance cover, critical illness cover, travel and expatriate 
benefits and car benefits. The benefits column for Non-Executive Directors has been updated to include taxable travel and accommodation expenses to attend Board functions 
in the year, and the tax payable thereon, in accordance with changes in HMRC guidance.
*   Fees paid to the Executive and Non-Executive Directors are in proportion with their dates of service.

The aggregate emoluments of all Directors during the year was $4.9m.

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2019

Total  
$000’s

1,938

1,119

1,124

264

75

152

40

100

59

2018

Total  
$000’s

2,262

1,392

1,529

254

67

133

77

41

30

139

84

84

–

–

–

–

–

–

139

90

90

–

–

–

–

–

–

Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019Notes to the single figure table
Annual bonus
Setting measures
The Company seeks to set challenging, yet achievable, performance measures designed to link pay to performance against its core 
strategic objectives.

The performance measures were chosen to ensure that Executive Directors are focused on the near-term objectives that build the 
long-term delivery of value to shareholders, which results in a combination of measures being used covering strategic, operational, 
financial, business development and CR goals. While we monitor Pharos’s performance with a broader mix of financial and non-financial 
KPIs, the measures impacting the annual bonus emphasise those deemed most relevant to management performance and take into 
account the annual budget and the prevailing economic environment. 

2019 Annual bonus measures and out-turns
The table below sets out the performance assessed against the weighted measures described in last year’s Remuneration Report, and 
identifies the link from each of these measures to our core strategy.

Metric

Strategy/portfolio management

Complete Merlon transaction 

Performance

Weight

30%

7.5%

Bonus awarded

25%

7.5%

Threshold

Target

Maximum

Target 
•  Complete by 30 April 
2019 with clear title

Performance
Completion occurred on 2 April 2019

Outcome
Achieved

Link to strategy
•  New business 
opportunities

•  Investment growth
•  Deliver values 

through growth

•  Return to 

shareholders

Maintain pipeline of value accretive projects

7.5%

Threshold

Target

Maximum

Link to strategy
•  New business 
opportunities

Target 
•  Maintain pipeline of value 

accretive projects 

Performance
Continuous pipeline maintained throughout the year 

Outcome
Achieved

Announce acquisition

7.5%

Threshold

Target

Maximum

7.5%

2.5%

Link to strategy
•  New business 
opportunities

Target 
•  Announce one 
acquisition 

Performance
Signed 8 exploration licences in Israel on 24 
December 2019

Outcome
Partial achievement – assets provide significant 
potential value but do not add reserves/ 
production. 

Finance

Link to strategy
•  New business 
opportunities

Target 
•  Maintain self-funding 

business plan covered, 
liquid reserves plus a 
cushion of $10m at  
all times

7.5%

7.5%

Threshold

Target

Maximum

Performance
Retained a cash balance in excess of $10m 
throughout period

Outcome
Achieved

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Metric

Financial/Operational

Production

Link to strategy
•  Deliver value through 

growth

Target 
•  Vietnam production full 
year target of 6,500 
boepd

•  Egypt production exit 

rate 6,500 boepd

Performance

Weight

35%

10%

Threshold

Target

Maximum

Performance
•  Vietnam production turnout was 7,318 boepd. 
•  Egypt production at end of financial year was  

Outcome
•  Achieved for Vietnam
•  Not achieved for Egypt 

5,055 boepd

Bonus awarded

15%

2.5%

Cash opex

10%

Threshold

Target

Maximum

Link to strategy
•  Deliver value through 

Target 
•  Vietnam cash opex bbl 

growth

<$15

Performance
•  Vietnam cash opex bbl $10.69
•  Egypt cash opex bbl $10.01

•  Egypt cash opex bbl <$8

Outcome
•  Achieved for Vietnam
•  Not achieved for Egypt 

Operating cash flow

10%

Threshold

Target

Maximum

Link to strategy
•  Deliver value through 

Target 
•  Deliver operating cash 

Performance
•  Operating cash flow of $0.19 per share

Outcome
•  Achieved

growth

Net debt

Link to strategy
•  Deliver values 

through growth

•  Return to 

shareholders

flow per share in excess 
of 2018 figure of $0.17

5%

Target 
•  Net debt/EDITDAX of <2

Performance
•  Net debt/EBITDAX -0.37

Outcome
•  Achieved

Threshold

Target

Maximum

5%

2.5%

5%

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019Metric

HSES & CR

Indicators for Vietnam

Link to strategy
•  Responsible 
operations

Target 
•  No lost time incidents
•  No environmental 

spillage

•  Successful roll out of 

HSES systems for new 
operating office in 
Vietnam for Blocks 125  
& 126

Performance

Weight

35%

5%

Threshold

Target

Maximum

Performance
•  No lost time incidents on Pharos operated assets or 

Outcome
•  Achieved

within HLHVJOC operations.

Bonus awarded

30%

5%

•  No environmental spillages on Pharos operated 

assets or within HLHVJOC operations.

•  Roll out of operations systems for operating office 
in Blocks 125 & 126, in particular, implement Human 
Rights Action Plan and complete Environmental 
Plans, as required, ahead of commencement of 
seismic acquisition, and execute first offshore 
operations (seismic acquisition) with no lost time 
accidents and no environmental spillage

The Safety and Environmental systems were rolled 
out in the early part of the year ahead of the seismic 
acquisition programme that was completed at the 
start of June, which was successfully completed as 
our first offshore operated activity in Vietnam

Indicators for Egypt

5%

Threshold

Target

Maximum

5%

20%

Target 
•  Conduct gap analysis of 
Merlon HSES MS against 
Pharos HSES MS 
requirements

Performance
•  Gap analysis completed and report in June 2019
•  Integration of Merlon/Pharos into the corporate 
HSSE reporting system was completed at the  
same time

•  Majority of work completed on closing the gaps 

Outcome
•  Achieved 

25%

Threshold

Target

Maximum

Outcome
•  Partially achieved – whilst the new country 
entry procedure task has been postponed 
until 2020 its replacement was considered to 
be of significantly higher importance, and 
required more effort, manpower and time to 
be achieved

Target 
•  Maintain industry levels 
of CR and business 
ethics performance
•  Implement appropriate 
training programmes
•  Implement Modern 
Slavery Prevention 
programme

•  Carry out human rights 

due diligence
•  Continue social 

investment in local 
communities according 
to the project specific 
selection processes
•  Update and streamline 
new entry procedure

Performance
•  Completed training programmes for all layers of the 

Company (Non-Executives, Executive Directors, 
management and staff)

•  Corporate targets for training have been met with 
new joiners completing training on timely basis

•  The Modern Slavery programme is now in place on 

supplier due diligence procedures and 
questionnaires are all in place and have been utilised 
appropriately

•  Human rights due diligence completed in both 

Vietnam and Egypt on a timely basis

•  All financial commitments to social investment 

programmes have been honoured

•  Continue social investment in local communities 

according to the project specific selection 
processes

•  New country entry procedure update and 

streamline has not been completed. The focus for 
2019 was to overhaul the entire HSES system, and 
its restructuring for the current corporate 
personnel structure was of significantly higher 
importance. Although not originally part of the KPIs 
this has been completed 

Link to strategy
•  Responsible 
operations

Corporate KPIs

Link to strategy
•  Responsible 
operations

The formulaic assessment resulted in a bonus outcome of 70% for each Executive Director. The Committee then took account of the 
wider performance both of the Company and the sector in terms of the shareholder experience and also noted the slow start to the 
ramp up of production levels in Egypt. The result of this review was a decision to use discretion to reduce the bonus outcome to 50% of 
maximum. The Committee believes the final result is a fair reward for the corporate and personal performance delivered over the 
financial year.

The Committee has formalised past practice to require all Executive Directors to receive one-third of any bonus as awards under the 
Deferred Share Bonus Plan. This ensures their interests remain closely aligned with shareholders.

E Story

M Watts

J Brown

$000s

693

428

428

% of maximum

50%

50%

50%

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LTIP vesting in respect of January/ February 2017 awards 
The LTIP awards granted in January/ February 2017, which would have vested in January/ February 2020, did not achieve the threshold 
level of vesting and therefore lapsed. The table below sets out an overview of Pharos’s relative TSR performance during that period.

Vesting schedule

Actual vesting

25% vesting

100% vesting

0%

Performance against comparator group

Median (50th percentile)

Upper 16th

Greater than 50th percentile

In all material respects, the same performance targets apply to all subsequent awards.

LTIP award grants
The LTIP awards granted in 2019 were set out in last year’s report. It is anticipated that future grants, including the grant to be made in 
2020, will be made following the announcement of the annual results in March. These will be made on a similar basis to prior years, with 
awards to Executive Directors over shares worth two times salary and subject to the same TSR measure (subject to confirmation of the 
precise list of comparators immediately prior to grant).

Directors’ interests as at 31 December 2019
The Board has a policy requiring Executive Directors to build a minimum shareholding of 200% of their annual salary. Additionally, LTIP 
awards require a two-year holding period following vesting. This is intended to emphasise a commitment to the alignment of Executive 
Directors with shareholders and a focus on long term stewardship.

The table below sets out the Directors’ interests as at 31 December 2019:

Shareholding requirement

(% of salary)

Achieved  
(Yes/No)

Beneficially 
owned shares

Awards subject 
to performance

conditions1,3

Awards 
vested

Awards subject
to service
conditions2,3 

Executive

E Story 4

J Brown9

M Watts9

Non-Executive

R de Sousa5

E Contini6

R Gray

A Monteiro 8

J Martin

M Daryabegui7

200%

200%

200%

–

–

–

–

–

–

Yes

No

No

–

–

–

–

–

–

14,073,747

418,801

552,195

3,779,217

2,496,446

2,496,446

–

–

–

629,473

388,229

388,229

9,178,572

29,000,000

–

–

30,000

36,757

1  LTIP awards potentially vesting in January and February 2020 in respect of awards made in 2017 lapsed and are excluded from the above table.
2  DSBP awards made in January 2020 in respect of the 2019 annual bonus are excluded from the above table.
3  Figures include accrued dividend equivalents.
4  12,398,747 Shares are held personally by E Story. 1,675,000 Shares are held through The Story Family Trust, a closely associated person to E Story.
5  9,178,572 Shares are held through Palamos Ltd a closely associated person to R de Sousa.
6  220,000 Shares are held personally by E Contini. 28,780,000 Shares are held through Liquid Business Ltd, a closely associated person to E Contini.
7   Appointed to the Board on 15 March 2019.
8  Retired as a Director on 23 May 2019.
9   At the date of this report, J Brown and M Watts are yet to reach the 200% shareholding requirement.

While the Executive Directors, as potential beneficiaries, are technically deemed to have an interest in all Ordinary Shares held by the 
Pharos EBT, the table above only includes those Ordinary Shares held by the EBT which are potentially transferable to the Directors 
pursuant to Options granted to them under the Company’s incentive schemes. Details of the EBT and its holdings are set out in Note 28 
to the Financial Statements.

There have been no changes to the Directors’ interests subsequent to 31 December 2019.

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019Share awards outstanding at 31 December 2019 

E Story6

J Brown 6

M Watts 6

Date
 potentially

 vested 3,4,5 Expiry date

Type of
award 7

As at  
1 Jan 2019

Granted/
awarded 1

Adjusted 2

Lapsed

Released 

LTIP

LTIP

LTIP

LTIP

DSBP

DSBP

919,504

1,003,235

1,447,020

–

–

–

–

2,040,087

227,175

–

–

353,594

82,543

46,757

117,879

174,231

18,506

30,198

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

Type of
award 7

As at 1 Jan 
2019

Granted/
awarded 1

Adjusted 2

Lapsed

Released

As at  
31 Dec 2019

1,132,535

1,049,992

1,564,899

2,214,318

8.01.19

25.01.20

23.03.21

31.03.22

245,681

26.04.20

383,792

03.01.21

As at  
31 Dec 2019

Date
 potentially
 vested 3

LTIP

LTIP

LTIP

DSBP

DSBP

LTIP

LTIP

LTIP

DSBP

DSBP

1,316,809

997,399

141,254

1,316,809

997,339

–

–

1,306,240

–

216,942

–

–

–

1,306,240

141,254

–

–

216,942

103,517

81,250

111,557

11,506

18,527

103,517

81,250

111,557

11,506

18,527

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

1,420,326

06.02.20

1,078,649

1,417,797

23.03.21

31.03.22

152,760

26.04.20

235,469

03.01.21

1,420,326

06.02.20

1,078,649

23.03.21

1,417,797

31.03.22

152,760

26.04.20

235,469

03.01.21

–

–

–

-

–

–

Expiry date

06.02.27

23.03.28

31.03.29

26.04.28

03.01.29

06.02.27

23.03.28

31.03.29

26.04.28

03.01.29

1  The face value of awards granted to E Story, J Brown and M Watts in the year was 2 times’ salary.
2  Outstanding awards under the Company’s share schemes were adjusted for dividend equivalents in accordance with plan rules (see Note 30 to the Financial Statements).
3  LTIP awards vest subject to Pharos’s relative TSR performance against a group of comparator companies and subject to a further holding requirement. DSBP awards vest 

subject to continued service over a two-year vesting period.

4  LTIP awards with a potential vest date in January 2020 did not achieve the performance threshold and lapsed.
5  In accordance with market regulation, DSBP awards potentially vesting in January 2020 were determined to not be capable of vesting before 10 March 2020, subsequent to 

the date of this report.

6  Awards to E Story were structured as conditional awards. Awards to M Watts and J Brown were structured as nil cost options.
7  LTIP awards vest at 25% when the threshold is met.

Payments for loss of office and payments to former Directors 
There have been no payments for loss of office during the year nor any payments to former Directors. 

Unaudited Section

Historical TSR performance and CEO outcomes
TSR performance
The chart below illustrates Pharos’ ten-year TSR performance against the FTSE Oil & Gas Index, being a broad market index which is 
sector specific. Note that this does not represent either the comparator group or time period against which performance is assessed 
under the LTIP.

TOTAL SHAREHOLDER RETURN (TSR)

200

150

100

50

0

2009

2010

2011

2012

2013

2014

2015

2016

2017

2018

2019

Pharos Energy

FTSE All Share Oil & Gas

TSR Comparator Group

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CEO outcomes
The table below shows the total remuneration paid to the CEO over the same ten-year period. In addition, the annual bonus and LTIP 
awards vesting are set out in respect of each year as a percentage of the maximum: 

CEO single figure of remuneration ($000s) 1

Annual bonus payout (% of maximum)

LTIP vesting (% of maximum)

2009

1,930

50%

59%

2010

1,466

25%

34%

2011

2,362

100%

53%

2012

2,992

100%

71%

2013

3,154

100%

66%

2014

3,659

80%

100%

2015

2,875

75%

96%

2016

2,018

35%

46%

2017

2,122

65%

0%

2018

2,262

105%

0%

2019

1,938

50%

0%

1  The current year annual average exchange rate has been applied to covert GB pounds to US dollars for all periods to ensure consistency between periods. 

Percentage change in remuneration of the CEO
The table below illustrates the percentage change in salary, benefits and annual bonus for the CEO and all other employees.

CEO

All other employees

% change in salary  
(2019/2018)

% change in benefits 
(2019/2018) 1

% change in annual bonus
(2019/2018) 2

0%

7.4%

-19.3%

-37%

-28.6%

11.5%

1  There has been a review to the Company’s benefits packages during the year. The variance reflects a decrease in costs, employee demographics and the level to which 

available allowances are applicable and taken up in a given year. 

2  Bonuses are awarded in respect of the calendar year. 

Chief Executive Officer’s pay ratio
The Company only has 30 UK employees and therefore has no statutory requirement to publish a CEO pay ratio. However, a ratio has 
been prepared and shared internally with the Committee for informative purposes. This figure will not be published externally as there 
are concerns that, with a small sample such as this, the employees could be identifiable. The Committee will continue to review the 
appropriateness of publishing pay ratios in the future. 

Relative importance of spend on pay
The chart below illustrates the year on year change in total remuneration as per Note 11 to the Financial Statements compared to the 
change in shareholder returns, which would include capital returns, dividends and share buybacks.

$m
Wages and salaries

Shareholder distributions

22.1

14.5

0

5

10

15

20

2019

2018

27.4

30

23.3

25

External appointments
With prior approval of the Board, Executive Directors are allowed to accept Non-Executive appointments on other boards and to retain 
the associated directors’ fees. Under this Policy:

•  Ed Story serves on the board of Vedanta Resources PLC, for which he retained associated fees for 2019 in the amount of $79,363 

(2018: $95,000); and

•  Jann Brown serves on the board of Troy Income and Growth Trust and served on the Wood plc board until 1 September 2019, for 

which she retained associated fees for 2019 in the amount of £77,863 (2018: £82,580).

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019Implementation for 2020
Base salary
Executive Directors’ salaries have not been increased on an aggregate basis for 2020, but as explained previously, the base salaries have 
been reallocated so they are spread equally across each Executive Director.

E Story

J Brown

M Watts

2020 Base salary  
000s

2019 Base salary  
000s

Increase from 2019  
% 

$702

£540

£540

$924

£450

£450

–24%

20

20

Benefits
For 2020, benefits available to Executive Directors will be consistent with those set out in the Directors’ Remuneration Policy approved at 
the 2020 AGM and as summarised further below.

Pension
For 2020, a pension benefit at 15% of salary will be provided to each Executive Director through contributions to Pharos’ money purchase 
plan up to plan limits or a cash supplement. Our Pension Policy for Executive Directors is already consistent with that for all employees 
(as a percentage of salary).

Annual bonus
It is intended that annual bonus awards will be considered for Executive Directors in December 2020. The maximum total bonus 
opportunity for an Executive Director in each year is 150% of salary, including cash and deferred components in accordance with the 
approved Policy. The table below sets out the weighted performance measures which will be applied in determining annual bonus awards 
for 2020, and identifies the link from each of these measures to our core strategy of:

2020 KPIs

Metric

Safety & environment

Strategic objectives; to preserve the safety of all our people, staff  
and contractors and preserve the environment through sound oil field 
practices and management of our own carbon footprint wherever  
we work.

Operational/ portfolio management

Strategic objectives: to replace produced reserves and add to the 
reserve base; to continue to fund exploration activity at a rate of up to 
30% of annual capex.

Financial

Strategic objectives: to control expenditure and access affordable 
sources of funding in order to maintain a strong balance sheet with 
sufficient liquid resource to fund planned activities.

Governance/ licence to operate

Strategic objectives: to instil a way of working that is strong on 
governance and personal codes of conduct; to develop talent 
throughout our business to support overall performance and 
succession planning.

Weight
15%

40%

30%

15%

Performance criteria which will be considered

•  LTIs
•  TRIR target
•  Zero environment spills
•  Carbon footprint improvements
•  Crisis response readiness maintained

•  Production volumes for all producing assets

•  Opex per bbl for each producing asset
•  Operating cash flow per share
•  Net debt to EBITDAX
•  All bank covenants met
•  Funding plan in place for all activities covered by cash/ available 

debt plus headroom

•  Code of ethics approved and implemented
•  Talent management plan in place to address all skills gaps
•  Social investment plan approved and implemented
•  Procurement policies approved and implemented in all locations

Details of how the Committee assessed performance against these weighted measures will be set out in next year’s report. The 
Committee retains discretion over the amount of bonus paid out to ensure that appropriate consideration is given to the relative 
importance of the achievements in the year and the actual contribution of these towards furthering the Group’s strategy, as well as the 
prevailing economic environment.

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LTIP
It is intended that annual LTIP awards will be made to Executive Directors in early 2020 following announcement of the preliminary results 
for the year to 31 December 2019, subject to approval of the Director Remuneration Policy at the 2020 AGM. The Committee’s selection 
of performance criteria is kept under review to ensure the long-term measures used remain appropriate to Pharos’ circumstances and 
strategy, and most effectively support the delivery of value creation over time. For awards to be made in respect of 2020, our approach 
will be to measure the award using a relative TSR measure. 

The performance range will be as follows:

•  Performance assessed against a bespoke group of other international oil and gas producers

•  Threshold vesting (25% of this element of the award) for achieving a Median ranking, rising on a straight-line basis to full vesting  

(100% of this element of the award) for achieving TSR equal to Upper Quartile ranking (i.e. top 25th percentile)

•  The relative TSR performance is also subject to a further underpin, which requires the Committee to be satisfied that the formulaic 

outcome is consistent with actual underlying financial and operational performance

The Committee did contemplate the use of additional performance measures for the 2020 LTIP, but following shareholder feedback it 
has been decided to retain the sole use of relative TSR for the 2020 award. The Committee will continue to monitor the use of TSR for 
future awards and consider if there are any other measures which are better suited. In any case, a measure of TSR will be used for at 
least 50% of any LTIP award. Award levels will remain at 20% of salary. However, considering the current share price, the awards granted 
will be calculated using the same share price as used to determine the 2019 LTIP. 

Malus and clawback provisions
All variable pay arrangements for Executive Directors are subject to provisions which enable the Committee to reduce vesting, or 
recover value delivered if certain circumstances occur. These circumstances include serious misconduct, an error in calculation, 
misstatement of the Company’s financial results, fraud, insolvency of the Company or serious reputational damage to the Company. In 
each case the occurrence of those circumstances and the effect on variable pay arrangements will be determined by the Committee.

Non-Executive Director remuneration 
Non-Executive Director fees, which have been set within the aggregate limits set out in the Company’s articles of association and 
approved by shareholders, are set out in the table below:

Chair of the Company*

Deputy Chair & Senior Independent Director*

Non-Executive Director

Additional fee: Chair of Audit and Risk Committee

Additional fee: Chair of Remuneration Committee

Additional fee: Workforce Engagement Nominated Director

* Includes fees for any Committee role

Fee from 1 January 2020

Fee from 1 January 2019

£200,000

£120,000

£60,000

£15,000

£15,000

£5,000

£200,000

£120,000

£60,000

£15,000

£15,000

£5,000

The Chair fees were reviewed and approved by the Remuneration Committee. The Non-Executive Director fees were reviewed and 
approved by the Board, excluding the Non-Executive Directors. 

For 2020, benefits available to Non-Executive Directors will be consistent with those set out in the Policy approved at the 2020 AGM. 
Non-Executive Directors are not eligible for participation in the Company’s incentive or pension schemes.

Service Contract (reference Table A: Directors Contract on page 118)

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019Consideration by Committee of matters relating to Executive Directors’ remuneration
The Directors who were members of the Remuneration Committee when matters relating to Directors’ remuneration for the year were 
being considered were Rob Gray, John Martin and Marianne Daryabegui (from 15 March 2019). 

The Committee received assistance from Ed Story (President and CEO) and Jann Brown (Managing Director and CFO) subsequently, 
except when matters relating to their own remuneration were being discussed. The Committee additionally received assistance from 
other Non-Executives Directors when required.

The Committee has appointed FIT Remuneration Consultants LLP (“FIT”) as its remuneration advisers, and fees of £23,044 were paid in 
2019 for their advisory services. FIT is a member of the Remuneration Consultants Group and complies with their professional code of 
conduct. FIT do not provide any other services to the Group which, along with FIT’s credentials and proven performance, contributes to 
the Committee’s view that the advice received has been appropriate, objective and independent. 

The Committee reviews all aspects of remuneration on an annual basis and with respect to individual and corporate performance during 
the year. The review is aided by comparison to published data on executive pay in the sector and in similar sized companies. More 
detailed benchmarking may be conducted, such as upon an indication of a change in market ranges, with results being monitored for 
indications of potential unwarranted upward ratcheting. The Committee receives regular updates on evolving regulatory and market 
practice including market trends, key developments, and a broad range of published principles and guidelines. The Committee takes into 
account pay conditions elsewhere in the Company, and considered matters related to Group remuneration.

Shareholder voting
The binding resolution on the Directors’ Remuneration Policy and the advisory resolution on the annual report on Directors’ remuneration 
proposed and passed at last year’s AGM received the following votes from shareholders:

Votes in favour

Votes against

Total totes

Votes withheld

Remuneration Policy (2017 AGM)

Remuneration report (2019 AGM)

Votes

178,389,045

12,443,905

190,832,950

21,549,300

%

93.48%

6.52%

100.00%

–

Votes

152,698,218

33,496,869

186,212,258

66,364

%

82.01%

17.99%

100.00%

–

Shareholder dilution
Pharos monitors the number of shares issued under employee share plans and their impact on dilution limits. These will not exceed the 
limits set by The Investment Association Principles of Remuneration currently in force, in respect of all share plans (10% in any rolling 
ten-year period) and executive share plans (5% in any rolling ten-year period).

This report was approved by the Board of Directors and signed on its behalf by:

Rob Gray 
Remuneration Committee Chair

10 March 2020

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCE REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION 
DIRECTORS’ REPORT

Annual Report of the Directors
The Directors present their annual report, along with the audited 
Financial Statements of the Group for the year ended 
31 December 2019.

The following sections of this report are incorporated herein 
by reference and form part of this Directors’ report.

Strategic report 

Board of Directors

Corporate Governance report

Nominations Committee report 

Audit and Risk Committee report 

Directors’ Remuneration report 

Financial Statements 

Additional Information 

pages 02-73

pages 80-81

pages 82-85

pages 86-89

pages 90-95

pages 96-117

pages 122-155

pages 156-160 

Developments following the 2019 reporting period
An indication of the likely future developments in the business 
of the Group is included in the Strategic Report on pages 2 to 73. 
There were no significant events after the balance sheet date. 

Results and dividends
The audited Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December 
2019 are set out on pages 122 to 155. The Company announced in 
January of this year its intention to pay a dividend of 2.75 pence 
per Ordinary Share in 2020. A period of global economic 
uncertainty has now been entered, driven by the outbreak of 
COVID-19 and the pressure that this is putting on oil price against 
this backdrop. The Company is focused on preserving balance 
sheet strength and has therefore decided to defer all discretionary 
expenditure including the dividend until such time as the medium 
to long term outlook is clearer. During the year the Company paid 
a final dividend to shareholders in respect of the financial year 
ended 31 December 2019 of 5.50 pence per Ordinary Share (2018: 
5.25 pence), at a cost to the Company of $27.4m (2018: $23.3m).

Directors
The business of the Company is managed by the Directors who 
may exercise all powers of the Company subject to the articles of 
association of the Company (“Articles”) and applicable law. The 
Directors who held office during the year, and the dates of their 
current service contracts or letters of appointment, which are 
available for inspection, are listed in Table A of this report. 
All Directors held office throughout the year except as noted in the 
table. The NEDs’ appointments are terminable at the will of the 
parties. Executive Directors’ contracts are terminable by either 
party on giving one year’s notice.

In accordance with the provisions of the UK Corporate 
Governance Code, all Directors will retire at the 2020 AGM and, 
being eligible, offer themselves for reappointment. As announced 
on 17 October 2019, Rui de Sousa will step down from the Board on 
13 March 2020. Ettore Contini will not offer himself for 
reappointment and will retire from the Board at the conclusion of 
the AGM. Relevant details of the Directors, which include their 
Committee memberships, are set out in the section headed ‘Board 
of Directors’ on pages 80 to 81. 

Pharos provides liability insurance for its Directors and Officers. 
The annual cost of the cover is not material to the Group. 
The Articles allow it to provide an indemnity for the benefit of its 
Directors, which is a qualifying indemnity provision for the purpose 
of section 233 of the Companies Act 2006 (“2006 Act”). The 
Company has made such provisions for the benefit of its Directors 
in relation to certain losses and liabilities that they may incur in the 
course of acting as Directors of the Company, its subsidiaries or 
associates, which remain in force at the date of this report. 

No member of the Board had a material interest in any contract of 
significance with the Company or any of its subsidiaries at any 
time during the year, except for their interests in shares and in 
share awards and under their service agreements and letters 
of appointment disclosed in the Directors’ Remuneration report 
commencing on page 96.

Table A: Directors holding office during 2019

Director 

Rui de Sousa 
Chair

Edward Story 
President and Chief Executive Officer

Jann Brown
Managing Director and Chief Financial Officer

Mike Watts
Managing Director

Rob Gray* 
Deputy Chair and Senior Independent Director

António Monteiro* 

John Martin*
Appointed to the Board 7 June 2018

Ettore Contini 

Marianne Daryabegui  
Appointed to the Board 15 March 2019

Date of contract

12 July 1999

14 May 1997

6 December 2017

6 December 2017

9 December 2013

10 June 2009

7 June 2019

11 December 2001

15 March 2019

*  Denotes those determined by the Board to be Independent Non-Executive 

Directors as described in the Corporate Governance report on pages 82 to 85.

Contributions
The Group’s policies prohibit political donations.

AGM
An explanation of the resolutions to be proposed at the 2020 
AGM, and the recommendation of Directors in relation to these, 
is included in the circular to shareholders which is available on the 
Company’s website (www.pharos.energy). Resolutions regarding 
the authority to issue shares are commented upon in this report 
under share capital.

A separate communication will be sent to shareholders and 
published on the Company’s website regarding the Company’s 
AGM.

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019Share capital 
Details of changes to share capital in the period are set out in Note 
27 to the Financial Statements. The Company currently has one 
class of shares in issue, ordinary shares of £0.05 each, all of which 
are fully paid. Each ordinary share in issue carries equal rights 
including one vote per share on a poll at general meetings of the 
Company, subject to the terms of the Articles and law. Shares held 
in treasury carry no such rights for so long as they are held in 
treasury. Votes may be exercised by shareholders attending or 
otherwise duly represented at general meetings. Deadlines for the 
exercise of voting rights by proxy on a poll at a general meeting 
are detailed in the notice of meeting and proxy cards issued in 
connection with the relevant meeting. Voting rights relating to the 
ordinary shares held by the Pharos EBT are not exercised. The 
Articles may only be amended by a resolution of the shareholders.

No shareholder, unless the Board decides otherwise, is entitled to 
attend or to vote either personally or by proxy at a general 
meeting or to exercise any other right conferred by being a 
shareholder if he or she or any person with an interest in ordinary 
shares has been sent a notice under section 793 of the 2006 Act 
(which confers upon public companies the power to require 
information with respect to interests in their voting shares) and 
he or she or any interested person failed to supply the Company 
with the information requested within 14 days after delivery of that 
notice.

The Board may also decide that no dividend is payable in respect 
of those default shares and that no transfer of any default shares 
shall be registered. These restrictions end seven days after receipt 
by the Company of a notice of an approved transfer of the shares 
or all the information required by the relevant section 793 notice, 
whichever is earlier.

The Directors may refuse to register any transfer of any share 
which is not a fully-paid share, although such discretion may not be 
exercised in a way which the Financial Conduct Authority regards 
as preventing dealings in shares of that class from taking place on 
an open or proper basis. The Directors may likewise refuse any 
transfer of a share in favour of more than four persons jointly.

The Company is not aware of any other restrictions on the transfer 
of ordinary shares in the Company other than certain restrictions 
that may from time to time be imposed by laws and regulations 
(for example, insider trading laws); and pursuant to the Listing Rules 
whereby certain employees of the Company require approval of 
the Company to deal in the Company’s shares.

The Company is not aware of any agreements between 
shareholders that may result in restrictions on the transfer 
of securities or voting rights. Resolutions will be proposed at the 
2020 AGM, as is customary, to authorise the Directors to exercise 
all powers to allot shares and approve a limited disapplication 
of pre-emption rights. This authority will be sought in line with 
institutional shareholder guidance, and in particular with the 
Pre-Emption Group’s Statement of Principles published on 
12 March 2015 (the “Pre-Emption Principles”), the authority  
sought for disapplication of pre-emption rights will be 10% 

on the basis that 5% of this is only intended to be used in 
accordance with the Pre-Emption Principles. Further information 
regarding these resolutions, which are based on template 
resolutions published by the Pre-Emption Group in May 2016, 
is set out in the circular to shareholders. A resolution will also be 
proposed at the 2020 AGM, as is also customary, to renew the 
Directors’ existing authority to make market purchases of the 
Company’s Ordinary Share capital, and to limit such authority to 
purchases of up to approximately 10% of the Company’s issued 
Ordinary Share capital. Shares purchased under this authority may 
either be cancelled or held as treasury shares.

Auditor
A resolution to reappoint Deloitte LLP as the Company’s auditor 
will be proposed by the Directors at the 2020 AGM. Deloitte also 
provide non-audit services to the Group, and details of the 
non-audit services provided in the year to 31 December 2019 are 
set out in Note 10 to the Financial Statements. All non-audit 
services are approved by the Audit and Risk Committee. The 
Directors are currently satisfied, and will continue to ensure, that 
this range of services is delivered in compliance with the relevant 
ethical guidance of the accountancy profession and does not 
impair the judgement or independence of the auditor. Further 
details of the Group policy on non-audit services are set out in the 
Audit and Risk Committee Report on pages 90-95.

The Directors at the date of approval of this report confirm that, so 
far as they are each aware, there is no relevant audit information, 
being information needed by the auditor in connection with 
preparing its report, of which the auditor are unaware. Each 
Director has taken all steps that they ought to have taken as a 
Director, having made such enquiries of fellow Directors and the 
auditor and taken such other steps as are required under their 
duties as a Director, to make themselves aware of any relevant 
audit information and to establish that the auditor is aware of that 
information. This confirmation is given and should be interpreted in 
accordance with the provisions of section 418 of the 2006 Act.

Greenhouse gas emissions reporting
Reporting on emission sources, as required under the  
Companies Act 2006 (Strategic and Directors’ Reports) 
Regulations 2013, is included in the Corporate Responsibility 
report on pages 56 to 73.

Tax governance
The Company is committed to high standards of tax governance 
and strives to meet its tax obligations. Tax contributions benefit the 
communities in which we operate by providing a framework within 
which the Company can grow. Pharos’ Tax Strategy Statement, 
which the Board has approved, defines the key tax objectives  
of the Group and is available on the Company’s website  
(www.pharos.energy).

Risk management
The Directors carried out a robust review of the principal and 
emerging risks facing the Group that could threaten the 
Company’s business model, future performance, solvency and 
liquidity. The Risk Management report on pages 46 to 55 details 
how we manage and mitigate these risks.

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Substantial shareholdings
As at 31 December 2019, the Company had been notified, in accordance with Chapter 5 of the Disclosure and Transparency Rules, of the 
voting rights as a shareholder of the Company shown in Table B of this report.

Table B: Substantial shareholdings in the Company

Name of holder

Ettore Contini2

Blue Albacore Business Ltd 

Globe Deals Ltd

Chemsa Ltd

Ed Story3

Number of Ordinary Shares 

31-Dec-19

Nature of holding

% of voting rights1

29,000,000 

27,276,381 

27,444,382 

24,136,925 

14,073,747

7.30

6.86

6.90

6.07

3.54

Direct and indirect

Direct

Direct

Direct

Direct and indirect

1  As at 31 December 2019, the total voting rights attached to the share capital in issue comprised 397,515,684 Ordinary Shares each of £0.05 nominal value, being 406,637,952 

Ordinary Shares in issue, less 9,122,268 Ordinary Shares currently held in treasury.

2  Ettore Contini holds 29,000,000 shares, representing 7.30% of the total voting rights of the Company, of which 220,000 shares (0.07%) are held personally by Ettore Contini 

and 28,780,000 shares (8.67%) are held through Liquid Business Ltd, a closely associated person to Ettore Contini.

3  Ed Story holds 14,073,747 shares, representing 3.54% of the total voting rights of the Company, of which 12,398,747 (3.12%) shares are held personally by Ed Story and 

1,675,000 (0.42%) shares are held through The Story Family Trust, a closely associated person to Ed Story.

During the period between 31 December 2019 and 10 March 2020, the Company did not receive any notifications under chapter 5 of the 
Disclosure and Transparency Rules. For further information on Directors’ interests, please see page 112.

Requirements of the UK Listing Rules
Table C of this report provides references to where the information required by Listing Rule 9.8.4R is disclosed within this Annual Report:

Table C: Listing Rules requirements

Listing Rule requirement

Details of any long term incentive schemes as required by Listing Rule 9.4.3 R. 

Details of any arrangements under which a director of the company has waived or agreed to waive any emoluments from the 
company or any subsidiary undertaking. Where a director has agreed to waive future emoluments, details of such waiver together with 
those relating to emoluments which were waived during the period under review.

Directors’ Remuneration 
Report pages 96 to 117

No such waivers

Details required in the case of any allotment for cash of equity securities made during the period under review otherwise than to the 
holders of the company’s equity shares in proportion to their holdings of such equity shares and which has not been specifically 
authorised by the company’s shareholders.

No such share allotments

Details of any contract of significance subsisting during the period under review: (a) to which the listed company, or one of its 
subsidiary undertakings, is a party and in which a director of the listed company is or was materially interested; and (b) between the 
listed company, or one of its subsidiary undertakings, and a controlling shareholder.

Details of any arrangement under which a shareholder has waived or agreed to waive any dividends, where a shareholder has  
agreed to waive future dividends, details of such waiver together with those relating to dividends which are payable during the  
period under review.

Note 35 page 154

Note 29 page 150

Whistleblowing procedure
The Board has reviewed, and is satisfied with, the Company’s procedures for “whistleblowing”, enabling employees to raise issues in 
confidence concerning improprieties which would be addressed with appropriate follow-up action. The Group has in place an Ethics 
Hotline using an independent confidential telephone service available to staff to report a suspected breach of the Group’s Code of 
Business Conduct and Ethics. 

Business Relationships 
In order to foster relationships with suppliers and customers , Pharos ensures a robust engagement process before contracts are 
awarded. Every vendor is required to complete due diligence so that the company may ensure all corporate and banking details are 
recorded and checked before invoices are issued, this allows for prompt and accurate payment. Where possible, payment terms are  
30 days from date of receipt of a validly submitted invoice. A comprehensive contracts register was set up during 2019 to ensure post 
award contract management is addressed to consider delivery of appropriate notices of renewal of termination. 

In Egypt the standard contract terms for the Petrosilah joint venture were amended to reflect the integration into the Pharos business.
These amendments have contributed to contract awards being more efficient and reflect a more international approach to those 
providers of goods and services in Egypt. Within these overall structures we seek to work constructively with our suppliers, customers 
and other business partners to build productive relationships. 

Going concern
It should be recognised that any consideration of the foreseeable future involves making a judgement, at a particular point in time, about 
future events which are inherently uncertain. Nevertheless, at the time of preparation of these accounts and after making enquiries, the 
Directors have a reasonable expectation that the Group has adequate resources to continue operating for the foreseeable future. For 
this reason, and taking into consideration the additional factors in the Strategic Report on pages 2 to 73 including the Financial Review  
on pages 42 to 45, they continue to adopt the going concern basis in preparing the accounts.

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019Directors’ responsibility statement
The Directors confirm that, to the best of each person’s knowledge:

a)  the Financial Statements set out on pages 122 to 155, which have 
been prepared in accordance with applicable United Kingdom 
law and IFRS as adopted by the European Union, give a true and 
fair view of the assets, liabilities, financial position and loss of the 
Company and the Group taken as a whole;

b)  this Directors’ Report along with the Strategic Report, including 
each of the management reports forming part of these reports, 
includes a fair review of the development and performance of 
the business and the position of the Company and the Group 
taken as a whole, together with a description of the principal 
risks and uncertainties that they face and how these are being 
managed and mitigated as set out in the Risk Management 
Report on pages 46 to 55; and

c)  the annual report and the Financial Statements, taken as a whole, 

are fair, balanced and understandable and provide the 
information necessary for the shareholders to assess the 
Group’s performance, business model and strategy.

Approved by the Board and signed on its behalf.

Directors’ responsibilities for the financial statements
The Directors are responsible for preparing the Annual Report and 
the Financial Statements in accordance with applicable United 
Kingdom law and IFRS as adopted by the European Union both for 
the Group and the Company. The Directors are required to 
prepare Financial Statements for each financial year that give a 
true and fair view of the financial position of the Company and of 
the Group and the financial performance and cash flows of the 
Group for that period. In preparing those accounts the Directors 
are required to select suitable accounting policies and then apply 
them consistently; present information and accounting policies in a 
manner that provides relevant, reliable and comparable 
information; and state that the Company and the Group have 
complied with applicable accounting standards, subject to any 
material departures disclosed and explained in the accounts.

The Directors are responsible for keeping proper accounting 
records which disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the 
financial position of the Company and the Group and enable them 
to ensure that the accounts comply with relevant legislation. They 
are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the Company 
and the Group and hence for taking reasonable steps for the 
prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities.

The Directors are responsible for the maintenance and integrity  
of the corporate and financial information included on the 
Company’s website. Information published on the internet is 
accessible in many countries with different legal requirements. 
Legislation in the United Kingdom governing the preparation and 
dissemination of Financial Statements may differ from legislation  
in other jurisdictions.

Jann Brown 
Managing Director and Chief Financial Officer 

10 March 2020

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Report on the audit of the financial statements

1.   Opinion
In our opinion:

•   the financial statements of Pharos Energy plc (the ‘parent company’) and its subsidiaries (the ‘group’) give a true and fair view of the 
state of the group’s and of the parent company’s affairs as at 31 December 2019 and of the group’s loss for the year then ended;

•  the group financial statements have been properly prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRSs)  

as adopted by the European Union;

•   the parent company financial statements have been properly prepared in accordance with IFRSs as adopted by the European Union 

and as applied in accordance with the provisions of the Companies Act 2006; and

•  the financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006 and, as regards the 

group financial statements, Article 4 of the IAS Regulation

We have audited the financial statements which comprise:

•   the consolidated income statement;

•   the consolidated statement of comprehensive income;

•   the consolidated and parent company balance sheets;

•  the consolidated and parent company statements of  

changes in equity;

•   the consolidated and parent company cash flow statements; and

•   the related notes 1 to 38.

The financial reporting framework that has been applied in their preparation is applicable law and IFRSs as adopted by the  
European Union and, as regards the parent company financial statements, as applied in accordance with the provisions of the  
Companies Act 2006.

2.   Basis for opinion
We conducted our audit in accordance with International Standards on Auditing (UK) (ISAs (UK)) and applicable law. Our responsibilities 
under those standards are further described in the auditor’s responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements section of our report. 

We are independent of the group and the parent company in accordance with the ethical requirements that are relevant to our audit of 
the financial statements in the UK, including the Financial Reporting Council’s (the ‘FRC’s’) Ethical Standard as applied to listed public 
interest entities, and we have fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with these requirements. We confirm that the 
non-audit services prohibited by the FRC’s Ethical Standard were not provided to the group or the parent company.

We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion.

3.   Summary of our audit approach

Key audit matters The key audit matters that we identified in the current year were:

•  Fair value acquisition accounting of Merlon;

•  Impairment of producing oil & gas assets; and

•  Going concern basis of accounting

Within this report, key audit matters are identified as follows:

  Newly identified

Increased level of risk

   Similar level of risk

  Decreased level of risk

Materiality

Scoping

The materiality that we used for the group financial statements was $7 million which was determined on the basis of 
1.4% of Net Assets.

We focused primarily on the group’s key business units, being Vietnam and the newly acquired Egyptian business, 
as well as the parent company which is based in London. These locations were all subject to a full scope audit and 
account for 98% of the group’s total assets, 100% of the group’s revenue, 100% of the profit before tax from profit 
making entities and 82% of the loss before tax from loss making entities. Specified audit procedures were then 
performed on the remaining 2% of the group’s total assets and 18% of the loss before tax from loss making entities.

Significant 
changes in  
our approach

The fair value acquisition accounting of Merlon was identified as a new key audit matter in the current year, following 
the completion of this acquisition in April 2019. Our audit scope has consequently been adjusted to include Egypt, 
as outlined above. The applicability of the going concern basis of accounting was also identified as a new key audit 
matter, following the significant reduction in oil prices subsequent to year end. There have been no other significant 
changes in our approach in the current year.

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
4.  Conclusions relating to going concern, principal risks and viability statement 

4.1  Going concern
We have reviewed the directors’ statement in Note 2 to the financial statements about whether they 
considered it appropriate to adopt the going concern basis of accounting in preparing them and their 
identification of any material uncertainties to the group’s and company’s ability to continue to do so over  
a period of at least twelve months from the date of approval of the financial statements.

We considered as part of our risk assessment the nature of the group, its business model and related risks 
including where relevant the impact of Brexit, the requirements of the applicable financial reporting 
framework and the system of internal control. We evaluated the directors’ assessment of the group’s ability 
to continue as a going concern, including challenging the underlying data and key assumptions used to make 
the assessment, and evaluated the directors’ plans for future actions in relation to their going concern 
assessment.

We are required to state whether we have anything material to add or draw attention to in relation to that 
statement required by Listing Rule 9.8.6R(3) and report if the statement is materially inconsistent with our 
knowledge obtained in the audit.

4.2  Principal risks and viability statement
Based solely on reading the directors’ statements and considering whether they were consistent with the 
knowledge we obtained in the course of the audit, including the knowledge obtained in the evaluation of  
the directors’ assessment of the group’s and the company’s ability to continue as a going concern, we are 
required to state whether we have anything material to add or draw attention to in relation to:

•  the disclosures on pages 46 to 55 that describe the principal risks, procedures to identify emerging  

risks, and an explanation of how these are being managed or mitigated;

•  the directors’ confirmation on pages 54 and 55 that they have carried out a robust assessment of the 
principal and emerging risks facing the group, including those that would threaten its business model, 
future performance, solvency or liquidity; or

•  the directors’ explanation on pages 54 and 55 as to how they have assessed the prospects of the group, 

over what period they have done so and why they consider that period to be appropriate, and their 
statement as to whether they have a reasonable expectation that the group will be able to continue in 
operation and meet its liabilities as they fall due over the period of their assessment, including any related 
disclosures drawing attention to any necessary qualifications or assumptions.

We are also required to report whether the directors’ statement relating to the prospects of the group 
required by Listing Rule 9.8.6R(3) is materially inconsistent with our knowledge obtained in the audit.

Going concern is the 
basis of preparation of 
the financial statements 
that assumes an entity 
will remain in operation 
for a period of at least 
12 months from the date 
of approval of the 
financial statements.

We confirm that we  
have nothing material  
to report, add or draw 
attention to in respect  
of these matters.

Viability means the 
ability of the group to 
continue over the time 
horizon considered 
appropriate by the 
directors. 

We confirm that we  
have nothing material  
to report, add or draw 
attention to in respect  
of these matters.

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5.  Key audit matters
Key audit matters are those matters that, in our professional judgement, were of most significance in our audit of the financial statements 
of the current period and include the most significant assessed risks of material misstatement (whether or not due to fraud) that we 
identified. These matters included those which had the greatest effect on: the overall audit strategy, the allocation of resources in the 
audit; and directing the efforts of the engagement team.

These matters were addressed in the context of our audit of the financial statements as a whole, and in forming our opinion thereon, and 
we do not provide a separate opinion on these matters.

5.1  Fair value acquisition accounting of Merlon 

Key audit matters The acquisition of Merlon Petroleum El Fayum Company (“Merlon”) was completed on 2 April 2019 for a 

consideration of $215.2 million, settled through the payment of $136 million cash and the issuance of 65,561,041 new 
shares. The fair value of net assets acquired was considered equal to the consideration amount of $215.2 million and 
hence no goodwill was recognised on acquisition. This is considered a key audit matter due to the significant 
judgements and estimates involved in assessing the fair value of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed as part 
of the acquisition, in particular the fair value of the oil & gas property, plant and equipment (“PP&E”).

Management have estimated the fair value of the oil & gas PP&E acquired using discounted post-tax cash flows. The 
key assumptions included:

How the scope  
of our audit 
responded to the 
key audit matter

•  oil price forecasts, being $65/bbl in 2020, plus inflation of 2% thereafter;

•  post-tax nominal discount rate of 12%;

•  reserves and resources estimates and associated production profiles.

The reserve estimates used by Management were estimated 2P Reserves together with a share of estimated 2C 
Contingent Resources, with the underlying data for such reserves and resources based on the Competent Persons 
Report (“CPR”) prepared for the purposes of the transaction. The CPR was prepared by a third party reservoir 
engineering expert as of 31 December 2018 using standard industry reserve estimation methods and definitions, 
which has then been adjusted by Management for production up to the date of acquisition. Management have 
highlighted oil and gas reserves as a key source of estimation uncertainty in note 4 to the financial statements.

Further details of the key assumptions used by management in their fair value estimates for this transaction are 
provided in note 37 of the financial statements and in the Report of the Audit & Risk Committee on page 92.

For the fair valuation of net assets acquired and net liabilities assumed in relation to this acquisition, we performed 
the following procedures:

•  we obtained an understanding of controls relevant to the preparation of the fair value estimates;

•  we understood the process by which management has derived its fair value estimates;

•  we compared oil price assumptions with third party forecasts and publicly available forward curves;

•  we involved our internal valuation specialists to perform an independent recalculation of the discount rate used at 

the date of acquisition;

•  we understood the process used by management to derive their reserves estimates and associated production 

profiles and how they provide information to, and interact with, the third party expert;

•  we reviewed the third party expert’s report on Merlon’s reserves estimates and communicated directly with them 

to discuss and assess their scope of work, and evaluate their competence, capabilities and objectivity; 

•  we assessed, with the involvement of Deloitte reserves experts, whether it was appropriate to include a share of 

estimated 2C Contingent Resources in the reserve estimates used in the fair value estimates;

•  we assessed the other assumptions used by Management by reference to third party information, our knowledge 

of Merlon and industry and also budgeted and forecast performance;

•  we tested management’s fair value calculations for mechanical accuracy; and

•  we considered whether management’s presentation and disclosures relating to the acquisition were appropriate 

and in accordance with IFRS 3 Business Combinations

Key observations We are satisfied that the fair values recorded by the group are appropriate, and that no goodwill arose on the 
acquisition. We are satisfied that the presentation and disclosure of the acquisition in note 37 of the financial 
statements are in accordance with the requirements of IFRS 3 Business Combinations.

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
5.2. Impairment of producing oil & gas assets  

Key audit matter 
description

How the scope  
of our audit 
responded to the 
key audit matter

The value of property, plant and equipment relating to the group’s producing oil and gas assets as at 31 December 
2019 was $661.8 million (2018: $506.9 million). This is considered as a key audit matter due to the significant 
judgements and estimates involved in assessing whether any impairment has arisen at year-end, and in quantifying 
any such impairments. In addition, we considered that there was a risk of impairment due to the potential impact of 
climate change on long term oil prices. Given the importance of producing assets to the group and the judgemental 
nature of the inputs used in determining the recoverable amounts, we also considered there to be a potential for 
fraud in this area.

Management reviewed its two producing assets in Vietnam, being Te Giac Trang (‘TGT’) and Ca Ngu Vang (‘CNV’), 
and its one producing asset in Egypt, being El Fayum, for indicators of impairment. As a result of ongoing oil price 
volatility, Management concluded that there was an indicator of impairment for all three of these fields. 
Management has estimated the recoverable amount of each field, being its fair value less costs to sell, and 
compared this to its balance sheet carrying amount. The recoverable amount for each field was above the carrying 
amount and as such, Management considered that no impairment was required. 

Management’s fair value estimates were based on key assumptions which included:

•  oil price forecasts, being $65/bbl in 2020, plus inflation of 2% thereafter;

•  reserves estimates and production profiles;

•  post-tax nominal discount rates , which were consistent with prior year at 10% for TGT and CNV, and for El Fayum 

were consistent with the acquisition date assumption of 12%; and 

•  operating and capital expenditure

In relation to reserves estimates Management have engaged third party reservoir engineering experts to provide an 
independent report on the group’s reserves estimates using standard industry reserve estimation methods and 
definitions for each of the CNV, TGT and El Fayum fields. Consistent with the approach adopted in relation to the 
acquisition date fair values of Merlon, Management has included a share of estimated 2C Contingent Resources in 
their estimate of El Fayum reserves, based on underlying data in the third party reserves report for that field. 
Management have explained the scope of work of the third party experts and their findings in the operations review, 
as well as highlighting oil and gas reserves as a key source of estimation uncertainty in note 4 to the financial 
statements.

Further details of the key assumptions used by management in their impairment evaluation are provided in note 16 
of the financial statements and in the Report of the Audit & Risk Committee on page 94. The disclosures in note 16 
include the sensitivity of the impairment assessments to changes in key assumptions, including the impact of 
adopting a long term oil price consistent with a scenario described as being compliant with achieving the 2015 COP 
21 Paris agreement goal to limit temperature rises to well below 20C (“Paris 20C Goal”).

For the TGT, CNV and El Fayum impairment assessments, we performed the following procedures:

•  we understood the basis for Management’s conclusion as to the existence or otherwise of impairment  

triggers for TGT, CNV and El Fayum;

•  we obtained an understanding of controls relevant to the preparation of the fair value estimates;

•  we understood the process by which management has derived its estimate of fair value less costs to sell;

•  we compared oil price assumptions with third party forecasts and publicly available forward curves.  

This included comparison with a third party forecast described as being consistent with the Paris 20C Goal;

•  we understood the process used by management to derive their reserves estimates and associated production 

profiles and how they provide information to, and interact with, the third party experts;

•  we reviewed the third party expert’s reports on Pharos’ reserves estimates as summarised in the operations 

review and evaluated whether these estimates were used consistently throughout the accounting calculations 
reflected in the financial statements;

•  we communicated directly with the third party reserves experts to discuss and assess their scope of work, and 

evaluate their competence, capabilities and objectivity;

•  we involved our internal valuation specialists to perform an independent recalculation of the discount rates used 

for TGT, CNV and El Fayum;

•  we assessed management’s other assumptions by reference to third party information, our knowledge of the 

group and industry and also budgeted and forecast performance; 

•  we tested the fair value estimates for mechanical accuracy; and

•  we considered whether management’s presentation and disclosures relating to impairment and associated 

estimation uncertainty were adequate

Key observations We are satisfied that Management’s decision that no impairment charge is required on TGT, CNV or El Fayum is 

appropriate. We are also satisfied that appropriate disclosures relating to Management’s impairment assessment 
have been provided in note 16. 

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INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT TO THE MEMBERS OF PHAROS ENERGY PLC

5.3.  Going Concern  

Key audit matter 
description

As a result of the significant (approximately 50%) reduction in oil prices subsequent to the balance sheet date,  
we consider the appropriateness of the going concern assumption and the adequacy of Management’s disclosure 
in this area to be a key audit matter.

Management have prepared a base case cash flow forecast for a period of at least 12 months from the date  
of approval of the financial statements and also considered a number of downside scenarios. 

The key assumptions used by management in their base case include:

•  oil price forecasts, being $60/bbl in 2020, increasing to $65/bbl from January 2021, adjusted for existing hedging 

positions in place; and

•  production and expenditure forecasts consistent with those used in their impairment tests for producing oil  

& gas assets.

Management’s downside scenarios include individual sensitivities relating to oil price, production and capital 
expenditure. They have also considered an aggregated downside scenario, with key assumptions including:

•  oil price forecast of $30/bbl in 2020, increasing by $5/bbl in each quarter in 2021;

•  5% reduction in production for its Vietnam producing assets; and

•  10% increase in capital expenditure.

The aggregated downside scenario also includes a number of mitigating actions, of which the most significant  
is the removal of uncommitted capital expenditure in both Egypt and Vietnam, together with the associated 
reduction in future production volumes. 

Management’s base case and downside scenarios forecast that the group will remain cash positive and in 
compliance with the financial covenants in its reserve based lending (RBL) facility for at least 12 months from the 
date of approval of the financial statements. Based on this, management has concluded that the going concern 
basis of accounting is appropriate.

Further details of the key assumptions used by management are provided in the going concern section of note 16 
to the financial statements.

We performed the following audit procedures:

•  obtained an understanding of the company’s going concern assessment process as well as the control 

environment implemented by management;

•  confirmed that the forecasts incorporated in the base case model are consistent with the budget approved by 

the Board and the impairment tests for producing oil & gas assets;

•  assessed the historical accuracy of budgets prepared by Management;

•  compared the oil prices in the aggregated downside scenario with both the spot oil price and publically available 

forward curves as of the date of approval of the financial statements;

•  assessed and recalculated the impact of the aggregated downside scenario on the financial covenants included 

in the the RBL during the going concern period;

•  assessed the ability of management to execute the mitigating actions in its aggregated downside scenario, 

including the extent to which the adjustments made to capital expenditure are uncommitted as of the date of  
this report; 

•  tested the going concern model for mechanical accuracy; and

•  considered whether the disclosures relating to going concern are appropriate

How the scope  
of our audit 
responded to the 
key audit matter

Key observations Based on the cashflow forecasts prepared by Management, we are satisfied that it is appropriate to adopt the 

going concern basis of accounting in preparing the financial statements.

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
6.  Our application of materiality 
6.1.  Materiality
We define materiality as the magnitude of misstatement in the financial statements that makes it probable that the economic decisions 
of a reasonably knowledgeable person would be changed or influenced. We use materiality both in planning the scope of our audit work 
and in evaluating the results of our work.

Based on our professional judgement, we determined materiality for the financial statements as a whole as follows:

Group financial statements

Parent company financial statements

Materiality

$7 million (2018: $7 million)

$6.3 million (2018: $6.75 million)

Basis for 
determining 
materiality

Rationale for  
the benchmark 
applied

1.4% (2018: 1.5%) of net assets 

Parent company materiality equates to 1.1% (2018: 1.5%)  
of net assets

Consistent with the prior year, as the primary nature  
of this holding company is to hold investments in 
subsidiaries, we have concluded that net assets 
represents the most appropriate benchmark.

The group’s 2019 profit before tax from continuing 
operations is not considered to represent a stable basis 
for materiality or be representative of the underlying 
scale of the group due to: (a) the continued volatility in oil 
prices; (b) the uncertain outlook for future oil prices; and 
(c) 2019 production not being reflective of the underlying 
scale of the group’s operations as a result of the newly 
acquired Egypt business unit only contributing for part 
of the year and at a relatively low daily rate due to the 
ongoing development programme in that country. 
Accordingly, consistent with the prior year, we have 
concluded that net assets represents the most 
appropriate benchmark which reflects the long term 
value of the group through its portfolio of production 
and exploration assets and their associated reserves and 
contingent resources. 

Net Assets $510m

Net Assets

Group materiality

Group materiality 
$7m

Vietnam component 
materiality
$5.6m

Egypt component 
materiality
$4.2m

Audit & Risk 
Committee reporting 
threshold $0.35m

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6.2. Performance materiality
We set performance materiality at a level lower than materiality  
to reduce the probability that, in aggregate, uncorrected and 
undetected misstatements exceed the materiality for the financial 
statements as a whole. Group performance materiality was set  
at 70% of group materiality for the 2019 audit (2018: 70%). In 
determining performance materiality, we considered the 
following factors:

7.2.  Working with other auditors
The group audit team assesses each year how best to be 
appropriately involved in the audit work undertaken in Vietnam. In 
the current year, this was achieved by regular interaction and 
review through correspondence, telephone and other electronic 
media as well as performing a review of the underlying work of the 
component auditors in selected key areas by a senior member of 
the audit team.

a.  the controls environment within which the group operates, 
including that related to IT, is not considered to be complex;

b.  the responsibility for all key accounting judgements and critical 
sources of estimation uncertainty is centralised and conducted 
in the head office in London;

c.  the limited number of changes to the business during the year, 
with the only significant development being the acquisition of 
Merlon;

d.  the limited turnover of management and key accounting 

personnel;

e.  our risk assessment did not identify a disproportionate number 

of significant risks of material misstatements; and

f.  the history of a low number of corrected and uncorrected 

misstatements identified in previous periods.

6.3.  Error reporting threshold
We agreed with the Audit & Risk Committee that we would report 
to the Committee all audit differences in excess of $0.35m (2018: 
$0.35m), as well as differences below that threshold that, in our 
view, warranted reporting on qualitative grounds. We also report to 
the Audit & Risk Committee on disclosure matters that we 
identified when assessing the overall presentation of the financial 
statements.

7.  An overview of the scope of our audit
7.1.  Identification and scoping of components
Our group audit was scoped by obtaining an understanding of the 
group and its environment, including group-wide controls, and 
assessing the risks of material misstatement at the group level. 
Based on that assessment, we scoped in the group’s key business 
units, Vietnam and Egypt, which are accounted for partly in the 
local country of operation and partly in London, together with the 
parent company which is also accounted for in London. The 
Vietnamese component, the Egyptian component and the parent 
company, which were subject to full scope audits, accounted for 
98% of the group’s total assets, 100% of the group’s revenue, 100% 
of the profit before tax from profit making entities and 82% of the 
loss before tax from loss making entities. Specified audit 
procedures have been performed on the remaining 2% of the 
group’s total assets and 18% of the loss before tax from loss 
making entities. The Vietnamese component materiality was $5.6 
million and the Egyptian component materiality was $4.2 million. 
We also audited the consolidation of the group’s business units. In 
both the current and prior year, all of the key audit matters that 
had the greatest effect on our audit strategy, as described above, 
were audited directly by the group audit team in London.

Egypt is a new component in the current year as a result of the 
Merlon acquisition. The component team was visited during the 
year by the lead audit partner and other senior members of the 
engagement team. The group audit team has been directly 
involved in overseeing the Egypt component audit planning and 
execution, through frequent correspondence, telephone and other 
electronic media as well as performing a review of the underlying 
work of the component auditors in selected key areas in person by 
a senior member of the audit team. 

In addition to our direct interactions, we sent detailed instructions 
to our component audit teams, and reviewed their audit working 
papers. 

8.  Other information
The directors are responsible for the other information. The other 
information comprises the information included in the annual 
report, other than the financial statements and our auditor’s report 
thereon.

Our opinion on the financial statements does not cover the other 
information and, except to the extent otherwise explicitly stated in 
our report, we do not express any form of assurance conclusion 
thereon.

In connection with our audit of the financial statements, our 
responsibility is to read the other information and, in doing so, 
consider whether the other information is materially inconsistent 
with the financial statements or our knowledge obtained in the 
audit or otherwise appears to be materially misstated.

If we identify such material inconsistencies or apparent material 
misstatements, we are required to determine whether there is a 
material misstatement in the financial statements or a material 
misstatement of the other information. If, based on the work we 
have performed, we conclude that there is a material misstatement 
of this other information, we are required to report that fact.

In this context, matters that we are specifically required to report 
to you as uncorrected material misstatements of the other 
information include where we conclude that:

•  Fair, balanced and understandable – the statement given by the 

directors that they consider the annual report and financial 
statements taken as a whole is fair, balanced and understandable 
and provides the information necessary for shareholders to 
assess the group’s position and performance, business model 
and strategy, is materially inconsistent with our knowledge 
obtained in the audit; or

•  Audit & Risk Committee reporting – the section describing the 

work of the audit & risk committee does not appropriately 
address matters communicated by us to the audit & risk 
committee; or

•  Directors’ statement of compliance with the UK Corporate 
Governance Code – the parts of the directors’ statement 
required under the Listing Rules relating to the company’s 
compliance with the UK Corporate Governance Code 

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019containing provisions specified for review by the auditor in 
accordance with Listing Rule 9.8.10R(2) do not properly disclose 
a departure from a relevant provision of the UK Corporate 
Governance Code.

We have nothing to report in respect of these matters.

11.1.  Identifying and assessing potential risks related to 
irregularities
In identifying and assessing risks of material misstatement in 
respect of irregularities, including fraud and non-compliance with 
laws and regulations, we considered the following:

9.  Responsibilities of directors
As explained more fully in the directors’ responsibilities statement, 
the directors are responsible for the preparation of the financial 
statements and for being satisfied that they give a true and fair 
view, and for such internal control as the directors determine is 
necessary to enable the preparation of financial statements that 
are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error.

In preparing the financial statements, the directors are responsible 
for assessing the group’s and the parent company’s ability to 
continue as a going concern, disclosing as applicable, matters 
related to going concern and using the going concern basis of 
accounting unless the directors either intend to liquidate the group 
or the parent company or to cease operations, or have no realistic 
alternative but to do so.

10.  Auditor’s responsibilities for the audit of  
the financial statements
Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether 
the financial statements as a whole are free from material 
misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an 
auditor’s report that includes our opinion. Reasonable assurance is 
a high level of assurance, but is not a guarantee that an audit 
conducted in accordance with ISAs (UK) will always detect a 
material misstatement when it exists. Misstatements can arise from 
fraud or error and are considered material if, individually or in the 
aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence the 
economic decisions of users taken on the basis of these financial 
statements.

Details of the extent to which the audit was considered capable of 
detecting irregularities, including fraud and non-compliance with 
laws and regulations are set out below.

A further description of our responsibilities for the audit of the 
financial statements is located on the FRC’s website at:  
www.frc.org.uk/auditorsresponsibilities. This description forms  
part of our auditor’s report.

11.  Extent to which the audit was considered capable of 
detecting irregularities, including fraud
We identify and assess the risks of material misstatement of the 
financial statements, whether due to fraud or error, and then 
design and perform audit procedures responsive to those risks, 
including obtaining audit evidence that is sufficient and 
appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion.

•  the nature of the industry and sector, control environment and 
business performance including the design of the group’s 
remuneration policies, key drivers for directors’ remuneration, 
bonus levels and performance targets;

•  the group’s own assessment of the risks that irregularities may 

occur either as a result of fraud or error;

•  results of our enquiries of management and the audit and risk 

committee about their own identification and assessment of the 
risks of irregularities; 

•  any matters we identified having obtained and reviewed the 

group’s documentation of their policies and procedures relating 
to:

 – identifying, evaluating and complying with laws and 

regulations and whether they were aware of any instances of 
non-compliance;

 – detecting and responding to the risks of fraud and whether 
they have knowledge of any actual, suspected or alleged 
fraud;

 – the internal controls established to mitigate risks of fraud or 

non-compliance with laws and regulations;

•  the matters discussed among the audit engagement team 
including significant component audit teams and involving 
relevant internal specialists, including tax and valuations 
specialists regarding how and where fraud might occur in the 
financial statements and any potential indicators of fraud.

As a result of these procedures, we considered the opportunities 
and incentives that may exist within the organisation for fraud and 
identified the greatest potential for fraud in Management’s 
assessment of the impairment of producing oil & gas assets. In 
common with all audits under ISAs (UK), we are also required to 
perform specific procedures to respond to the risk of 
management override.

We also obtained an understanding of the legal and regulatory 
framework that the group operates in, focusing on provisions of 
those laws and regulations that had a direct effect on the 
determination of material amounts and disclosures in the financial 
statements. The key laws and regulations we considered in this 
context included the UK Companies Act and the UK Listing Rules.

In addition, we considered provisions of other laws and regulations 
that do not have a direct effect on the financial statements but 
compliance with which may be fundamental to the group’s ability 
to operate or to avoid a material penalty. These included the 
group’s operating licences and environmental regulations in both 
Egypt and Vietnam, the El Fayum concession agreement in Egypt 
and the TGT and CNV production sharing contracts in Vietnam.

11.2. Audit response to risks identified
As a result of performing the above, we identified impairment of 
producing oil & gas assets as a key audit matter related to the 
potential risk of fraud. The key audit matters section of our report 
explains the matter in more detail and also describes the specific 
procedures we performed in response to that key audit matter. 

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In addition to the above, our procedures to respond to risks 
identified included the following:

•  reviewing the financial statement disclosures and testing to 

supporting documentation to assess compliance with provisions 
of relevant laws and regulations described as having a direct 
effect on the financial statements;

•  enquiring of management, the Audit & Risk Committee and 

in-house legal counsel concerning actual and potential litigation 
and claims;

•  performing analytical procedures to identify any unusual or 
unexpected relationships that may indicate risks of material 
misstatement due to fraud;

13.  Matters on which we are required to report by exception

13.1. Adequacy of explanations received and accounting records
Under the Companies Act 2006 we are required to report to you 
if, in our opinion:

•  we have not received all the information and explanations we 

require for our audit; or

•  adequate accounting records have not been kept by the parent 

company, or returns adequate for our audit have not been 
received from branches not visited by us; or

•  the parent company financial statements are not in agreement 

with the accounting records and returns

•  reading minutes of meetings of those charged with governance 

We have nothing to report in respect of these matters.

and making enquiries regarding any relevant legal 
correspondence; and

•  in addressing the risk of fraud through management override of 
controls, testing the appropriateness of journal entries and other 
adjustments; assessing whether the judgements made in making 
accounting estimates are indicative of a potential bias; and 
evaluating the business rationale of any significant transactions 
that are unusual or outside the normal course of business. 

We also communicated relevant identified laws and regulations 
and potential fraud risks to all engagement team members, 
including internal specialists and significant component audit 
teams, and remained alert to any indications of fraud or 
non-compliance with laws and regulations throughout the audit.

Report on other legal and regulatory requirements

12.  Opinions on other matters prescribed by the  
Companies Act 2006
In our opinion the part of the directors’ remuneration report to  
be audited has been properly prepared in accordance with the 
Companies Act 2006.

In our opinion, based on the work undertaken in the course of  
the audit:

•   the information given in the strategic report and the directors’ 
report for the financial year for which the financial statements 
are prepared is consistent with the financial statements; and

•   the strategic report and the directors’ report have been 

prepared in accordance with applicable legal requirements

In the light of the knowledge and understanding of the group and 
the parent company and their environment obtained in the 
course of the audit, we have not identified any material 
misstatements in the strategic report or the directors’ report.

13.2. Directors’ remuneration
Under the Companies Act 2006 we are also required to report if in 
our opinion certain disclosures of directors’ remuneration have not 
been made or the part of the directors’ remuneration report to be 
audited is not in agreement with the accounting records and 
returns.

We have nothing to report in respect of these matters.

14.  Other matters
14.1. Auditor tenure
Following the recommendation of the audit & risk committee, we 
were appointed by the directors on 1 August 2002 to audit the 
financial statements for the year ending 31 December 2002 and 
subsequent financial periods. The period of total uninterrupted 
engagement including previous renewals and reappointments of 
the firm is 18 years, covering the years ending 31 December 2002 
to 31 December 2019.

14.2. Consistency of the audit report with the additional report 
to the audit & risk committee
Our audit opinion is consistent with the additional report to the 
audit & risk committee we are required to provide in accordance 
with ISAs (UK).

15.  Use of our report
This report is made solely to the company’s members, as a body, 
in accordance with Chapter 3 of Part 16 of the Companies Act 
2006. Our audit work has been undertaken so that we might state 
to the company’s members those matters we are required to state 
to them in an auditor’s report and for no other purpose. To the 
fullest extent permitted by law, we do not accept or assume 
responsibility to anyone other than the company and the 
company’s members as a body, for our audit work, for this report, 
or for the opinions we have formed.

David Paterson ACA (Senior statutory auditor) 
For and on behalf of Deloitte LLP 
Statutory Auditor 
London, United Kingdom 
10 March 2020 

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Consolidated Income Statement 
for the year to 31 December 2019

Continuing operations

Revenue

Cost of sales

Gross profit

Administrative expenses

Reversal of impairment charge

Operating profit

Other/exceptional expense

Investment revenue

Finance costs

Profit before tax

Tax

(Loss)/profit for the year from continuing operations

Discontinued operations

Profit pre and post-tax for the year from discontinued operations

(Loss)/profit for the year

(Loss)/Earnings per share from continuing operations (cents)

Basic 

Diluted 

(Loss)/Earnings per share from continuing and discontinued operations (cents)

Basic 

Diluted 

Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive  
Income for the year to 31 December 2019

(Loss)/profit for the year 

Items that may be subsequently reclassified to profit or loss:

Commodity hedge losses (pre and post-tax)

Unrealised currency translation differences

Total comprehensive (loss)/profit for the year 

Notes

5, 6

7

16

8

5

9

6

6, 12

36

6

14

2019
$ million

2018
$ million

189.7

(128.6)

61.1

(23.1)

–

38.0

(16.7)

1.9

(11.5)

11.7

(38.2)

(26.5)

2.0

(24.5)

(7.0)

(7.0)

(6.5)

(6.5)

175.1

(104.6)

70.5

(28.4)

37.8

79.9

–

2.7

(2.5)

80.1

(56.0)

24.1

3.6

27.7

7.3

7.0

8.4

8.1

Notes

30

25

30

2019
$ million

(24.5)

(2.6)

–

(27.1)

 2018
$ million

27.7 

–

0.2 

27.9 

The above consolidated income statement and consolidated statement of comprehensive income should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes. 

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCE REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION 
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS CONTINUED

Balance Sheets as  
at 31 December 2019

Non-current assets

Intangible assets

Property, plant and equipment

Right-of-use assets

Investments

Loan to subsidiaries 

Other assets

Current assets

Inventories

Trade and other receivables

Tax receivables 

Cash and cash equivalents

Total assets

Current liabilities

Trade and other payables 

Borrowings

Lease liabilities

Tax payable 

Net current assets (liabilities) 

Non-current liabilities

Deferred tax liabilities 

Borrowings 

Lease liabilities

Long term provisions 

Total liabilities

Net assets

Equity

Share capital

Share premium

Other reserves

Retained earnings

Total equity

Notes

15

16

16, 33

17

18

19

20

21

22

24

33

23

24

33

26

27

27

28

30

2019
$ million

Group

2018
$ million

2019
$ million

Company

2018
$ million

20.4

669.6

7.3

–

–

43.6

740.9

16.2

41.2

1.2

58.5

117.1

858.0

(35.5)

(26.4)

(0.8)

(8.8)

(71.5)

45.6

(137.8)

(71.7)

(6.4)

(60.5)

(276.4)

(347.9)

510.1

31.9

55.4

246.6

176.2

510.1

5.8

507.2

–

–

–

40.6

553.6

4.1

19.6

0.6

240.1

264.4

818.0

(22.9)

–

–

(5.2)

(28.1)

236.3

(141.8)

(95.6)

–

(51.7)

(289.1)

(317.2)

500.8

27.6

–

246.6

226.6

500.8

0.3

0.6

6.3

539.2

16.8

–

563.2

–

0.5

0.3

4.5

5.3

568.5

(5.5)

–

(0.3)

(1.7)

(7.5)

(2.2)

–

–

(6.0)

–

(6.0)

(13.5)

555.0

31.9

55.4

199.3

268.4

555.0

–

0.3

–

396.7

–

–

397.0

–

0.9

0.6

105.9

107.4

504.4

(9.5)

–

–

(0.7)

(10.2)

97.2

–

–

–

–

–

(10.2)

494.2

27.6

–

196.7

269.9

494.2

The above consolidated balance sheet statements should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes. 

The profit for the financial year in the accounts of the Company (Co number 3300821) was $24.4m inclusive of dividends from subsidiary 
undertakings (2018: $159.9m). As provided by section 408 of the Companies Act 2006, no income statement or statement of 
comprehensive income is presented in respect of the Company.

The financial statements were approved by the Board of Directors on 10 March 2020 and signed on its behalf by:

Rui de Sousa 
Chairman 

Jann Brown 
Director

132

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
 
Statements of Changes in Equity 
for the year to 31 December 2019

As at 1 January 2018

Profit for the year

Unrealised currency translation differences

Distributions

Share-based payments

Transfer relating to share-based payments

As at 1 January 2019

Loss for the year

Other comprehensive income

Unrealised currency translation differences

Shares issued

Distributions

Share-based payments

Transfer relating to share-based payments

As at 31 December 2019

As at 1 January 2018

Profit for the year

Unrealised currency translation differences

Distributions

Share-based payments

Transfer relating to share-based payments

As at 1 January 2019

Profit for the year

Unrealised currency translation differences

Shares issued

Distributions

Share-based payments

Transfer relating to share-based payments

As at 31 December 2019

Called up 
share capital 
(see Note 27) 
$ million

27.6

Notes

–

–

–

–

–

27.6

–

–

–

4.3

–

–

–

31.9

Called up 
share capital 
(see Note 27) 
$ million

27.6

–

–

–

–

–

27.6

–

–

4.3

–

–

–

31.9

30

28

28, 30

27

29, 30

28

28, 30

Notes

13, 30

28, 30

27

29, 30

28

28, 30

Share premium 
(see Note 27) 
$ million

Other reserves 
(see Note 28) 
$ million

Retained 
earnings 
(see Note 30) 
$ million

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

55.4

–

–

–

245.9

–

(1.4)

–

3.0

(0.9)

246.6

–

(2.6)

0.4

–

–

3.7

(1.5)

55.4

246.6

221.1

27.7

0.2

(23.3)

–

0.9

226.6

(24.5)

–

–

–

(27.4)

–

1.5

176.2

Share premium 
(see Note 27) 
$ million

Other reserves 
(see Note 28) 
$ million

Retained 
earnings 
(see Note 30) 
$ million

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

55.4

–

–

–

195.8

–

(1.4)

–

3.0

(0.7)

196.7

–

0.4

–

–

3.7

(1.5)

55.4

199.3

157.3

159.9

(24.8)

(23.3)

–

0.8

269.9

24.4

–

–

(27.4)

–

1.5

268.4

Group

Total
$ million

494.6

27.7

(1.2)

(23.3)

3.0

–

500.8

(24.5)

(2.6)

0.4

59.7

(27.4)

3.7

–

510.1

Company

Total
$ million

380.7

159.9

(26.2)

(23.3)

3.0

0.1

494.2

24.4

0.4

59.7

(27.4)

3.7

–

555.0

The above consolidated statements of changes in equity should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes. 

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCE REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONCONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS CONTINUED

Cash Flow Statements 
for the year to 31 December 2019

Net cash from (used in) continuing operating activities

Net cash used in discontinued operating activities 

Net cash from (used in) operating activities

Investing activities

Purchase of intangible assets

Purchase of property, plant and equipment

Decrease in liquid investments1

Payment for acquisition of subsidiary, net of cash acquired

Payment to abandonment fund

Other investment (repayments) in subsidiary undertakings

Dividends received from subsidiary undertakings

Net cash (used in) from continuing investing activities

Net cash (used in) from discontinued investing activities

Net cash (used in) from investing activities

Financing activities

Proceeds from borrowings

Interest paid on borrowings

Lease payments

Share-based payments

Proceeds from exercise of share options

Purchase of own shares into treasury

Dividends paid to company shareholders

Net cash (used in) from continuing financing activities

Net cash (used in) from financing activities

Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year

Effect of foreign exchange rate changes

Cash and cash equivalents at end of year1

Notes

32

32

32

2019
$ million

72.3

–

72.3

(9.9)

(50.2)

–

(153.1)

(3.3)

–

–

(216.5)

(0.7)

(217.2)

–

(7.7)

(1.2)

0.1

–

–

(27.4)

(36.2)

(36.2)

(181.1)

240.1

(0.5)

58.5

37

18

33

31

29

21

Group

2018
$ million

55.9

(1.7)

54.2

(2.4)

(16.6)

25.3

–

(3.4)

–

–

2.9

0.5

3.4

95.6

–

–

–

–

(1.3)

(23.3)

71.0

71.0

128.6

112.4

(0.9)

240.1

2019
$ million

(21.1)

–

(21.1)

(0.3)

(0.6)

–

(155.5)

–

16.8

87.5

(52.1)

–

(52.1)

–

–

(0.9)

0.1

–

–

(27.4)

(28.2)

(28.2)

(101.4)

105.9

–

4.5

Company

2018
$ million

(23.2)

–

(23.2)

–

(0.1)

–

–

–

(33.4)

187.0

153.5

–

153.5

–

–

–

–

(1.2)

–

(23.3)

(24.5)

(24.5)

105.8

1.0

(0.9)

105.9

1  Liquid investments comprise short-term liquid investments of between three to six months maturity while cash and cash equivalents comprise cash at bank and other 

short-term highly liquid investments of less than three months maturity. No liquid investments were held as of 31 December 2019 and 2018.

The above consolidated cash flow statements should be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes. 

134

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

1   General information
Pharos Energy plc is a company limited by shares and incorporated in England and Wales under the Companies Act. The address of the 
registered office is given on the inside back cover. The nature of the Group’s operations and its principal activities are set out in Note 6, in 
the Operations Review and Financial Review on pages 26 to 39 and 42 to 45, respectively. Pharos Energy plc is the ultimate parent 
company of the Group and except where otherwise indicated the following accounting policies apply to both the Group and the 
Company.

2  Significant accounting policies
(a)  Basis of preparation
The Financial Statements have been prepared in accordance with, and comply with, IFRS adopted for use in the European Union (‘EU’) 
and therefore comply with Article 4 of the EU IAS Regulation and with those parts of the Companies Act 2006 applicable to companies 
reporting under IFRS. The Financial Statements have also been prepared on a going concern basis of accounting for the reasons set out 
in the Annual Report of the Directors on page 118 and in the Financial Review on page 42.

The Financial Statements have been prepared under the historical cost basis, except for the valuation of hydrocarbon inventories and the 
revaluation of certain financial instruments. The Financial Statements are presented in US dollars as it is the functional currency of each 
of the Company’s subsidiary undertakings and is generally accepted practice in the oil and gas sector. 

Change of functional currency for the Company
IAS 21 ’The effects of changes in foreign exchange rates’ describes functional currency as ‘the currency of the primary economic 
environment in which an entity operates’. Determining when the functional currency of an entity has changed is a matter of judgement as 
the determining factors may move gradually over time. However, the Board has concluded that the functional currency of the Company 
changed from GBP to US dollars with effect from 1 January 2019. The main reason for the change is due to the new financing activities 
being in US dollars. 

The principal accounting policies adopted are set out below.

(b)  New and amended standards adopted by the Group
IFRS 16 Leases
On 1 January 2019, Pharos adopted IFRS 16 ’Leases’, which replaced IAS 17 ‘Leases’. The Group applied the modified retrospective 
approach and did not restate comparative amounts for the year prior to first adoption. 

For short-term leases (lease term less than 12 months) and leases of low value assets, the Group has opted to recognise a lease expense 
on a straight-line basis as permitted by IFRS 16. 

Right-of-use assets were measured at the amount of the corresponding lease liability on the date of initial adoption (adjusted for any 
prepaid or accrued lease expenses).

Lease liabilities were measured at the present value of the remaining lease payments, discounted using the interest rate implicit in the 
lease (if available), or the incremental borrowing rate as of 1 January 2019, or start of the lease, whichever is earlier. Refer to Note 33 for 
further detail.

(c)  New standards and interpretations not yet adopted
Certain new accounting standards and interpretations have been published that are not mandatory for 31 December 2019 reporting 
periods and have not been early adopted by the Group. These standards are not expected to have a material impact on the Group in the 
current or future reporting periods nor on foreseeable future transactions.

(d)   Basis of consolidation
The Group Financial Statements consolidate the accounts of Pharos Energy plc and entities controlled by the Company (its subsidiary 
undertakings) drawn up to the balance sheet date. Control is achieved where the investor is exposed or has rights to variable returns 
from its involvement with the investee and has the ability to affect those returns through its power over the investee. The results of 
subsidiaries acquired or sold are consolidated for the periods from or to the date on which control passed. Acquisitions are accounted 
for under the acquisition method whereby the assets, liabilities and contingent liabilities acquired and the consideration given are 
recognised in the Group accounts at their fair values as at the date of the acquisition.

(e)   Business combinations
Acquisitions of businesses are accounted for using the acquisition method. The consideration transferred in a business combination is 
measured at fair value, which is calculated as the sum of the acquisition-date fair values of assets transferred by the Group, liabilities 
incurred by the Group to the former owners of the acquiree and the equity interests issued by the Group in exchange for control of the 
acquiree. Acquisition-related costs are recognised in profit or loss as incurred. Assets acquired and liabilities assumed are recorded at 
their acquisition date fair values. 

Goodwill is measured as the excess of the sum of the consideration transferred, the amount of any non-controlling interests in the 
acquiree, and the fair value of the acquirer’s previously held equity interest in the acquiree (if any) over the net of the acquisition-date 
amounts of the identifiable assets acquired and the liabilities assumed. If, after reassessment, the net of the acquisition-date amounts of 
the identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed exceeds the sum of the consideration transferred, the amount of any 
non-controlling interests in the acquiree and the fair value of the acquirer’s previously held interest in the acquiree (if any), the excess is 
recognised immediately in profit or loss as a bargain purchase gain.

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCE REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONNOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS CONTINUED

2  Significant accounting policies continued
(f)   Investments
Non-current investments in subsidiaries of the Company are shown at cost less provision for impairment. Liquid investments comprise 
short-term liquid investments of between three to six months maturity.

(g)   Interests in Joint Arrangements
A joint arrangement is an arrangement where two or more parties have joint control. Joint control is the contractually agreed sharing 
of control of an arrangement, which exists only when decisions about the relevant activities require the unanimous consent of the parties 
sharing control. Joint arrangements where the Group has the rights to assets and obligations for liabilities of the arrangement are 
classified as joint operations and are accounted for by recognising the Group’s share of assets, liabilities, income and expenses. Joint 
arrangements where the Group has the rights to the net assets of the arrangement are classified as joint ventures and are accounted for 
using the equity method of accounting.

(h)   Revenue
Revenue represents the fair value of the Group’s share of oil and gas sold during the year on a liftings basis and is recognised 
when the Group satisfies a performance obligation by transferring oil and gas to a customer. In accordance with the Group’s sales 
agreements for oil and gas, the title to oil and gas typically transfers to a customer at the same time as the customer takes physical 
possession of the oil or gas. Typically, at this point in time, the performance obligations of the Group are fully satisfied. 

Investment revenue is accrued on a time basis, by reference to the principal outstanding and at the effective interest rate applicable.

(i)  Other/Exceptional items
Other/Exceptional items represents income and expenses that arise from events or transactions that are clearly distinct from the 
ordinary activities of the enterprise and, therefore, are not expected to recur frequently or regularly. Refer to Note 8 for further details. 

Intangible and Tangible non-current assets

(j)  
Oil and gas exploration, evaluation and development expenditure
The Group adopts the successful efforts method of accounting for exploration and evaluation costs. Pre-licence costs are expensed 
in the period in which they are incurred. All licence acquisition, exploration and evaluation costs and direct administration costs are 
initially capitalised as intangible non-current assets in cost centres by well (most typically), field or exploration area, as appropriate. 
Interest payable is capitalised insofar as it relates to specific development activities.

These costs are then written off as exploration costs in the income statement unless commercial reserves have been established or the 
determination process has not been completed and there are no indicators of impairment.

All field development costs are capitalised as property, plant and equipment. Property, plant and equipment related to production 
activities is amortised in accordance with the Group’s depletion and amortisation accounting policy.

Depreciation and depletion
Depletion is provided on oil and gas assets in production using the unit of production method, based on proven and probable reserves, 
applied to the sum of the total capitalised exploration, evaluation and development costs, together with estimated future development 
costs at current prices. Oil and gas assets which have a similar economic life are aggregated for depreciation purposes.

Impairment of value
Where there has been a change in economic conditions or in the expected use of a tangible non-current asset that indicates a possible 
impairment in an asset, management tests the recoverability of the net book value of the asset by comparison with the estimated 
discounted future net cash flows based on management’s expectations of future oil prices and future costs. Any identified impairment is 
charged to the income statement.

Intangible non-current assets are considered for impairment at least annually by reference to the indicators specified in paragraphs 18 to 
20 of IFRS 6. The impairment indicators in IFRS 6 for each exploration asset are:

•  The period for which the entity has the right to explore in the specific area has expired during the period or will expire in the 

near future, and is not expected to be renewed;

•  Substantive expenditure on further exploration for and evaluation of mineral resources in the specific area is neither budgeted 

nor planned; 

•  Exploration for and evaluation of mineral resources in the specific area have not led to the discovery of commercially viable quantities 

of mineral resources and the entity has decided to discontinue such activities in the specific area; and

•  Sufficient data exist to indicate that, although a development in the specific area is likely to proceed, the carrying amount 

of the exploration and evaluation asset is unlikely to be recovered in full from successful development or by sale.

Other tangible non-current assets
Other tangible non-current assets are stated at historical cost less accumulated depreciation. Depreciation is provided on a straight-line 
basis at rates calculated to write off the cost of those assets, less residual value, over their expected useful lives of three to seven years.

136

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019Decommissioning
The decommissioning provision is calculated as the net present value of the Group’s share of the expenditure which is expected 
to be incurred at the end of the producing life of each field in the removal and decommissioning of the production, storage and 
transportation facilities currently in place. The cost of recognising the decommissioning provision is included as part of the cost of  
the relevant property, plant and equipment and is thus charged to the income statement on a unit of production basis in accordance  
with the Group’s policy for depletion and depreciation of tangible non-current assets. Period charges for changes in the net present 
value of the decommissioning provision arising from discounting are included in finance costs.

(k)   Changes in estimates
The effects of changes in estimates on the unit of production calculations are accounted for prospectively, from the date of adoption 
of the revised estimates, over the estimated remaining proven and probable reserves.

Inventories

(l)  
Inventories, except for inventories of hydrocarbons, are valued at the lower of cost and net realisable value.

Physical inventories of hydrocarbons are valued at net realisable value in line with well established industry practice. Underlifts 
and overlifts are valued at market value and are included in accrued income and prepayments, and accruals and deferred income, 
respectively. Changes in hydrocarbon inventories, underlifts and overlifts are adjusted through cost of sales.

(m)   Leases
As explained in Note 2(b) above, the Group has changed its accounting policy for leases where the Group is the lessee. The new policy 
and the impact of the change are described in Note 33. 

Until 31 December 2018, rentals payable under operating leases were charged to the income statement on a straight-line basis over the 
term of the lease. Benefits received and receivable as an incentive to enter into an operating lease were also spread on a straight-line 
basis over the lease term.

(n)   Share-based payments
Equity-settled awards under share-based incentive plans are measured at fair value at the date of grant and expensed on a straight-line 
basis over the performance period along with a corresponding increase in equity. Fair value is measured using an option pricing model 
taking into consideration management’s best estimate of the expected life of the option and the estimated number of shares that will 
eventually vest.

For cash-settled share-based payments, a liability is recognised measured initially at fair value. At each balance sheet date until the 
liability is settled, and at the date of settlement, the fair value of the liability is measured, with any changes in fair value recognised 
in profit or loss for the year.

(o)   Taxation
The tax expense represents the sum of the tax currently payable and deferred tax.

The tax currently payable is based on taxable profit for the year. The Group’s liability for current tax is calculated using tax rates that have 
been enacted or substantively enacted by the balance sheet date.

Deferred tax is the tax expected to be payable or recoverable on differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities in 
the financial statements and the corresponding tax bases, and is accounted for using the balance sheet liability method. Deferred tax 
liabilities are generally recognised for all taxable temporary differences and deferred tax assets are recognised to the extent that 
it is probable that sufficient taxable profits will be available to recover the asset. Deferred tax is not recognised where an asset or liability 
is acquired in a transaction which is not a business combination for an amount which differs from its tax value.

Deferred tax liabilities are recognised for taxable temporary differences arising on investments in subsidiaries and associates, and 
interests in joint ventures, except where the Group is able to control the reversal of the temporary difference and it is probable that the 
temporary difference will not reverse in the foreseeable future.

Deferred tax is calculated at the tax rates that are expected to apply in the period when the liability is settled or the asset is realised 
based on tax rates that have been enacted or substantively enacted by the balance sheet date. Deferred tax is charged or credited in  
the income statement, except when it relates to items charged or credited directly to equity, in which case the deferred tax is also dealt 
with in equity.

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCE REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONNOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS CONTINUED

2  Significant accounting policies continued
(p)   Financial instruments
Financial assets and financial liabilities are recognised on the Group’s balance sheet when the Group becomes a party to the contractual 
provisions of the instrument. 

There are no material financial assets and liabilities for which differences between carrying amounts and fair values are required 
to be disclosed. The classification of financial instruments as required by IFRS 7 is disclosed in Notes 20, 21, 22, 24 and 33.

Financial asset at fair value through profit or loss
Where a financial instrument is classified as a financial asset at fair value through profit or loss it is initially recognised at fair value.  
At each balance sheet date the fair value is reviewed and any gain or loss arising is recognised in the income statement. Changes  
in the net present value of the financial asset arising from discounting are included in other gains and losses.

Trade receivables
Trade receivables are recognised initially at fair value and subsequently measured at amortised cost, less loss allowance, when required. 

Trade payables
Trade payables are generally stated at amortised cost using the effective interest rate.

Derivative and hedging instruments
Derivatives are initially recognised at fair value on the date that a derivative contract is entered into, and they are subsequently 
remeasured to their fair value at the end of each reporting period. The accounting for subsequent changes in fair value depends on 
whether the derivative is designated as a hedging instrument and, if so, the nature of the item being hedged. 

At inception of the hedge relationship, the Group documents the economic relationship between hedging instruments and hedged 
items, including whether changes in the cash flows of the hedging instruments are expected to offset changes in the cash flows of 
hedged items. The Group documents its risk management objective and strategy for undertaking its hedge transactions. 

Pharos entered into different commodity (swap) hedges to protect its cash position and to ensure future compliance with its obligations 
under the RBL. Pharos has designated the swaps as cash flow hedges. For cash flow hedges, the portion of the gains and losses on the 
hedging instrument that is determined to be an effective hedge is taken to other comprehensive income and the ineffective portion is 
recognised in the income statement. The gains and losses taken to other comprehensive income are subsequently transferred to the 
income statement during the period in which the hedged transaction affects the income statement.

Bank borrowing
Interest-bearing bank loans are recorded at the proceeds received, net of direct issue costs. Finance charges, including any direct issue 
costs, are accounted for on an accrual basis in the income statement using the effective interest method and are added to the carrying 
amount of the instrument to the extent that they are not settled in the year in which they arise.

Equity instruments
Equity instruments issued by the Company are recorded at the proceeds received, net of direct issue costs. Equity instruments 
repurchased are deducted from equity at cost.

(q) Foreign currencies
The individual financial statements of each Group company are stated in the currency of the primary economic environment in 
which it operates (its functional currency). Transactions in currencies other than the entity’s functional currency (foreign currency) 
are recorded at the rate of exchange at the date of the transaction. Monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies  
at the balance sheet date are recorded at the rates of exchange prevailing at that date, or if appropriate, at the forward contract rate.  
Any resulting gains and losses are included in net profit or loss for the period.

For the purpose of presenting consolidated financial statements the results of entities denominated in currencies other than US dollars 
are translated at the daily rate of exchange and their balance sheets at the rates ruling at the balance sheet date. Any resulting gains or 
losses are taken to other comprehensive income. 

(r) Pension costs
The contributions payable in the year in respect of pension costs for defined contribution schemes and other post-retirement benefits 
are charged to the income statement. Differences between contributions payable in the year and contributions actually paid are shown 
either as accruals or prepayments in the balance sheet.

138

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019Financial risk management

3 
The Board reviews and agrees policies for managing financial risks that may affect the Group. In certain cases the Board delegates 
responsibility for such reviews and policy setting to the Audit and Risk Committee. The principal financial risks affecting the Group 
are discussed in the Risk Management Report on pages 46 to 55.

4  Critical judgements and accounting estimates
(a)   Critical judgements in applying the Group’s accounting policies
In the process of applying the Group’s accounting policies described in Note 2, management has made judgements that may have 
a significant effect on the amounts recognised in the financial statements. These are discussed below:

Oil and gas assets
Note 2(j) describes the judgements necessary to implement the Group’s policy with respect to the carrying value of intangible 
exploration and evaluation assets.

Management considers these assets for impairment at least annually with reference to indicators in IFRS 6. Note 15 discloses the 
carrying value of intangible exploration and evaluation assets. Further, Note 2(j) describes the Group’s policy regarding reclassification of 
intangible assets to tangible assets. Management considers the appropriateness of asset classification at least annually.

(b)   Key sources of estimation uncertainty
The key assumptions concerning the future, and other key sources of estimation uncertainty at the balance sheet date, other than those 
mentioned above, that may have a significant risk of causing a material adjustment to the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities within 
the next financial year are discussed below:

Oil and gas reserves and DD&A
Note 2(j) sets out the Group’s accounting policy on DD&A. Proven and probable reserves are estimated using standard recognised 
evaluation techniques and are disclosed on page 158. The estimate is reviewed at least twice a year and is audited at year end. Future 
development costs are estimated taking into account the level of development required to produce the reserves by reference to 
operators, where applicable, and internal engineers. As discussed in the Operations Review on page 26, the Vietnam fields, TGT and  
CNV proved and probable reserves estimates have been revised based on ongoing work of ERCE and audited by our Reserves Auditors, 
RISC Advisory Pty Ltd. Following completion of the acquisition in April 2019, the Egypt proved and probable reserves estimates have 
been reviewed and audited by McDaniels. Reserves estimates are inherently uncertain, especially in the early stages of a field’s life, and 
are routinely revised over the producing lives of oil and gas fields as new information becomes available and as economic conditions 
evolve. Such revisions may impact the Group’s future financial position and results, in particular, in relation to DD&A and impairment 
testing of oil and gas property, plant and equipment.

Impairment of producing oil and gas assets
If impairment indicators are identified in relation to a producing oil and gas field, management is required to compare the net carrying 
value of the assets and liabilities which represent the field cash generating unit (CGU) with the estimated recoverable amount of the field. 
Management generally determines the recoverable amount of the field by estimating its fair value less costs of disposal, using 
a discounted cash flow method. Calculating the net present value of the discounted cash flows involves key assumptions which include 
commodity prices, 2P reserves estimates and discount rates. Other assumptions include production profiles, future operating and capital 
expenditures. Further information relating to the specific assumptions and uncertainties relevant to impairment tests performed in the 
year are discussed in Note 16.

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Total revenue

5 
An analysis of the Group’s revenue is as follows:

Oil and gas sales (see Note 6)

Commodity hedge (see Note 6 and Note 25)

Investment revenue

2019
$ million

2018
$ million

189.9

(0.2)

1.9

191.6

175.1

–

2.7

177.8

6  Segment information
The Group has one principal business activity being oil and gas exploration and production. The Group’s continuing operations are 
located in South East Asia and Egypt (the Group’s operating segments). Africa has been classified as a discontinued operation for all 
years shown, as the Group disposed of all of its interests in that geographical area. There are no inter-segment sales. South East Asia  
and Egypt form the basis on which the Group reports its segment information.

Oil and gas sales (see Note 5)

Commodity hedge (see Note 5 and Note 25)

Total revenue

Depreciation, depletion and amortisation - Oil and gas (see Note 7 and 
Note 16)

Depreciation, depletion and amortisation - Other (see Note 16)

Profit (loss) before tax from continuing operations1 

Profit post-tax from discontinued operations

Tax charge (see Note 12)

SE Asia 
$ million

Egypt
$ million

Africa2
$ million

Unallocated 
$ million

155.5

–

155.5

60.3

–

55.2

–

38.2

34.4

–

34.4

14.1

0.2

(10.1)

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

2.0

–

–

(0.2)

(0.2)

–

0.9

(33.4)

–

–

SE Asia 
$ million

Egypt 
$ million

Africa2
$ million

Unallocated 
$ million

Oil and gas sales (see Note 5)

Depreciation, depletion and amortisation - Oil and gas (see Note 7 and 
Note 16)

Depreciation, depletion and amortisation - Other (see Note 16)

Reversal of impairment charge

Profit (loss) before tax from continuing operations1

Profit post-tax from discontinued operations

Tax charge (see Note 12)

175.1

51.8

–

37.8

107.7

–

56.0

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

3.6

–

–

–

0.3

–

(27.6)

–

–

2019

Group 
$ million

189.9

(0.2)

189.7

74.4

1.1

11.7

2.0

38.2

2018

Group 
$ million

175.1

51.8

0.3

37.8

80.1

3.6

56.0

1  Unallocated amounts included in profit before tax comprise corporate costs not attributable to an operating segment, investment revenue, other gains and losses and  

finance costs.

2  As of December 2018, Africa operations had been disposed. 

The accounting policies of the reportable segments are the same as the Group’s accounting policies as described in Note 2.

Included in revenues arising from South East Asia and Egypt are revenues of $150.7m and $34.4m which arose from the Group’s two 
largest customers, who contributed more than 10% to the Group’s oil and gas revenue (2018: $129.1m and $35.0m in South East Asia from 
the Group’s two largest customers).

140

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019Geographical information
The Group’s oil and gas revenue and non-current assets (excluding other receivables) by geographical location are separately detailed 
below where they exceed 10% of total revenue or non-current assets, respectively:

Revenue
All of the Group’s oil and gas revenue is derived from foreign countries. The Group’s oil and gas revenue by geographical location is 
determined by reference to the final destination of oil or gas sold.

Vietnam

Egypt

Thailand

Other

Non-current assets

United Kingdom

Vietnam

Egypt

Excludes other assets.

7  Cost of sales

Depreciation, depletion and amortisation

Production based taxes

Production operating costs

Inventories

8  Other/exceptional expense

Assignment Fee - Egypt acquisition cost (see Note 37)

Voluntary redundancy cost 

9 

Finance costs

Unwinding of discount on provisions (see Note 26)

Interest expense payable and similar fees (see Note 24)

Interest on lease liabilities (see Note 33)

Amortisation of capitalised borrowing costs (see Note 24)

Net foreign exchange (gains)/losses

2019 
$ million

2018 
$ million

153.9

34.4

–

1.6

189.9

131.8

–

26.1

17.2

175.1

2019 
$ million

2018 
$ million

7.2

482.7

207.4

697.3

0.2

512.8

–

513.0

2019 
$ million

2018 
$ million

74.4

12.3

45.4

(3.5)

128.6

51.8

15.1

37.6

0.1

104.6

2019 
$ million

2018 
$ million

13.6

3.1

16.7

–

–

–

2019 
$ million

2018 
$ million

1.6

7.0

0.3

2.7

(0.1)

11.5

1.4

0.6

–

–

0.5

2.5

In 2019 $1.6m relates to the unwinding of discount on the provisions for decommissioning (2018: $1.4m). The provisions are based  
on the net present value of the Group’s share of the expenditure which may be incurred at the end of the producing life of TGT  
and CNV (currently estimated to be 11-12 years) in the removal and decommissioning of the facilities currently in place (see Note 26).

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10  Auditor’s remuneration
The analysis of the auditor’s remuneration is as follows:

Fees payable to the Company’s auditor and their associates for the audit of the Company’s annual accounts

Fees payable to the Company’s auditor and their associates for other services to the Group:

Audit of the Company’s subsidiaries

Total audit fees

Audit related assurance services – half year review

Taxation compliance services

Corporate finance services and other assurance services

Other services

Total non-audit fees

2019 
$000s

254

2018 
$000s

188

79

333

88

–

19

–

107

8

196

68

–

583

–

651

The non-audit fees during 2019 included the half year review and other assurance services associated primarily with agreed upon 
procedures relating to the Vietnam region as well as regulatory and other advice to management. All non-audit fees were fully approved  
by the Audit and Risk Committee, having concluded such services were compatible with auditor independence and were consistent with 
relevant ethical guidance in place. Non-audit fees during 2018 included the half year review, due diligence related corporate finance 
services and other assurance services associated primarily with reporting accountant services on two transactions that took place 
during 2018.

Details of the Company’s policy on the use of auditors for non-audit services are set out in the Audit and Risk Committee Report on pages 
90 to 95.

Fees payable to Deloitte LLP for non-audit services to the Company are not required to be disclosed separately because the consolidated 
financial statements disclose such fees on a consolidated basis.

11  Staff costs
The average monthly number of employees of the Group including Executive Directors was 58 (2018: 26), of which 52 (2018: 23) 
were administrative personnel and 6 (2018: 3) were operations personnel. Their aggregate remuneration comprised:

Wages and salaries

Social security costs

Share-based payment expense (see Note 31)

Other pension costs under money purchase schemes

Other benefits

2019 
$ million

Group

2018 
$ million

13.4

1.2

4.0

1.8

1.7

22.1

9.1

1.7

2.0

0.9

0.8

14.5

In accordance with the Group’s accounting policy $1.6m of the Group’s staff costs above have been capitalised, of which $1.2m relates  
to our Vietnam assets and $0.4m relates to our Egypt assets (2018: $1.6m relating to Vietnam). 

In 2019, the total staff costs of $22.1m (2018: $14.5m) reflects an addition of $6.2m for the Egypt assets (from the date of completion). 
Excluding this and the impact of IFRS 2 share-based payment expense, the underlying costs have decreased to $11.9m (2018: $12.5m).

12  Tax

Current tax

Deferred tax (see Note 23)

2019 
$ million

2018 
$ million

42.2

(4.0)

38.2

46.8

9.2

56.0

The Group’s corporation tax is calculated at 50% (2018: 50%) of the estimated assessable profit for the year in Vietnam. In Egypt, under  
the terms of the concession any local taxes arising are settled by EGPC. During 2019 and 2018 both current and deferred taxation have 
arisen in overseas jurisdictions only.

142

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 201912  Tax continued
The charge for the year can be reconciled to the profit/(loss) per the income statement as follows:

Profit before tax (including discontinued operations)

Profit before tax at 50% (2018: 50%)

Effects of:

Non-deductible expenses

Tax losses not recognised

Non-deductible exploration costs written off

Tax charge for the year

2019 
$ million

2018 
$ million

13.7

6.8

14.0

17.4

–

38.2

83.7

41.9

4.5

8.5

1.1

56.0

The prevailing tax rate in Vietnam, where the Group produces oil and gas, is 50%. The tax charge in future periods may also be affected 
by the factors in the reconciliation above.

Non-deductible expenses include $8.9m (2018: $6.7m) relating to Vietnam DD&A charges for costs previously capitalised, which are 
non-deductible for Vietnamese tax purposes. A further $5.1m (2018: $2.8m) relates to non-deductible corporate costs including share 
scheme incentives. 

The Egypt concessions are subject to corporate income tax at the standard rate of 40.55%, however responsibility for payment of 
corporate income taxes falls upon EGPC on behalf of our local subsidiary Pharos El Fayum (PEF). The Group records a tax charge, with a 
corresponding increase in revenues, for the tax paid by EGPC on its behalf. However, this is only valid if PEF is in a profit making position 
and no such tax has been recorded this year. 

The effect from tax losses not recognised relates to costs, primarily of the Company, deductible for tax in the UK but not expected to be 
utilised in the foreseeable future.

13  Profit attributable to Pharos Energy Plc
The profit for the financial year in the accounts of the Company was $24.4m inclusive of dividends from subsidiary undertakings  
(2018: profit of $159.9m). As provided by section 408 of the Companies Act 2006, no income statement or statement of comprehensive 
income is presented in respect of the Company.

14  Earnings per share
The calculation of the basic and diluted earnings per share is based on the following data:

(Loss)/profit from continuing and discontinued operations for the purposes of basic (loss)/profit per share

Effect of dilutive potential ordinary shares – Cash settled share awards and options

(Loss)/profit from continuing and discontinued operations for the purposes of diluted (loss)/profit per share

(Loss)/profit from continuing operations for the purposes of basic (loss)/profit per share

Effect of dilutive potential ordinary shares – Cash settled share awards and options

(Loss)/profit from continuing operations for the purposes of diluted (loss)/profit per share

Weighted average number of ordinary shares

Effect of dilutive potential ordinary shares – Share awards and options

Weighted average number of ordinary shares for the purpose of diluted loss per share

2019 
$ million

(24.5)

–

(24.5)

2019 
$ million

(26.5)

–

(26.5)

Group

2018 
$ million

27.7

(0.7)

27.0

Group

2018 
$ million

24.1

(0.7)

23.4

Number of shares (million)

2019

378.1

–

378.1

2018

329.8

4.6

334.4

The denominator for the purposes of calculating both basic and diluted earnings per share have been adjusted to reflect the 
capitalisation issue in 2019. 

In accordance with IAS 33 “Earnings per Share”, the effects of 1.7 million antidilutive potential shares have not been included  
when calculating dilutive earnings per share for the year ended 31 December 2019, as the Group was loss making.

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15 

Intangible assets

Exploration and evaluation expenditure

As at 1 January

Additions

As at 31 December

2019 
$ million

5.8

14.6

20.4

Group

2018 
$ million

Company

2019 
$ million

3.8

2.0

5.8

–

0.3

0.3

Intangible assets at 2019 year-end comprise the Group’s exploration and evaluation projects which are pending determination. Included 
in the additions is Blocks 125 & 126 in Vietnam $10.1m, Egypt $4.2m of which $2.4m relates to North Beni Suef and $0.3m for the Israeli 
bid round licence fee. The outcome of ongoing exploration, and therefore whether the carrying value of E&E assets will ultimately be 
recovered, is inherently uncertain. 2018 additions were related to Blocks 125 & 126 in Vietnam.

16  Property, plant and equipment and right of use assets

Oil and gas 
properties 
$ million

Other 
$ million

Total 
$ million

Other 
$ million

Group

Company

Cost

As at 1 January 2018

Additions

Currency exchange

As at 1 January 2019

Egypt assets acquired (see Note 37)

Additions

Revision in decommissioning asset

As at 31 December 2019

Depreciation

As at 1 January 2018

Charge for the year

Reversal impairment

Currency exchange

As at 1 January 2019

Charge for the year

As at 31 December 2019

Carrying amount

As at 31 December 2019

As at 31 December 2018

Property, plant and equipment 

Right of use assets (see Note 33)

As at 31 December 2019

917.1

15.5

–

932.6

183.8

45.6

7.2

1,169.2

411.7

51.8

(37.8)

–

425.7

74.4

500.1

669.1

506.9

668.2

0.9

669.1

2.1

0.1

(0.1)

2.1

0.9

7.7

–

10.7

1.6

0.3

–

(0.1)

1.8

1.1

2.9

7.8

0.3

1.4

6.4

7.8

919.2

15.6

(0.1)

934.7

184.7

53.3

7.2

1,179.9

413.3

52.1

(37.8)

(0.1)

427.5

75.5

503.0

676.9

507.2

669.6

7.3

676.9

2.0

0.1

(0.1)

2.0

–

7.5

9.5

1.5

0.3

(0.1)

1.7

0.9

2.6

6.9

0.3

0.6

6.3

6.9

As result of ongoing oil price volatility, we have tested each of our oil and gas producing properties for impairment. The results of these 
impairment tests are summarised below. For each producing property, the recoverable amount has been determined using the fair value 
less costs of disposal method which constitutes a level 3 valuation within the fair value hierarchy. The net book value is supported by the 
fair value derived from a discounted cash flow valuation of the 2P production profile.

Vietnam
The key assumptions to which the fair value measurement is most sensitive are oil price, discount rate, capital spend and 2P reserves 
(2018: oil price, discount rate and 2P reserves). As at 31 December 2019, the fair value of the assets are estimated based on a post-tax 
nominal discount rate of 10% (2018: 10%) and an oil price of $65.0/bbl in 2020, plus inflation of 2.0% thereafter (2018: an oil price of $63.8/
bbl in 2019, $66.3/bbl in 2020 plus inflation of 2% thereafter).

No impairments arose on either TGT or CNV as a result of the above impairment tests. 

Testing of sensitivity cases indicated that a $5/bbl reduction in long term oil price used when determining the fair value less costs of 
disposal method would result in a minor impairment of $1m on TGT and a $0.2m impairment on CNV. A 1% increase in discount rate would 
not result in any impairment.

144

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019Egypt 
The key assumptions to which the fair value measurement is most sensitive are oil price, discount rate, capital spend and 2P reserves. As 
at 31 December 2019, the fair value of the asset is estimated based on a post-tax nominal discount rate of 12% and an oil price of $65.0/
bbl in 2020, plus inflation of 2.0% thereafter. In addition to 2P reserves, the production volumes used in the impairment test include 60% 
of estimated 2C contingent resources, with the underlying data for such volumes based on the reserve figures audited by our third party 
reservoir engineers in Egypt, McDaniels.

No impairment arose on El Fayum as a result of the above impairment test. 

Testing of sensitivity cases indicated that a $5/bbl reduction in long term oil price used when determining the fair value less costs of 
disposal method would result in an impairment of $48.6m. A 1% increase in discount rate would result in an impairment of $9.7m.

In developing the long term oil price assumptions outlined above, consideration was given to a third party forecast described as being 
consistent with achieving the 2015 COP 21 Paris agreement goal to limit temperature rises to well below 2OC. The long term oil price 
shown in this third party forecast is below the amount used in the above impairment tests but within the range encapsulated by the oil 
price sensitivity shown above.

Other fixed assets comprise office fixtures and fittings and computer equipment.

17  Fixed asset investments and joint arrangements
Group Investments
The Company and the Group had investments in the following subsidiary undertakings as at 31 December 2019, all of which (unless 
indicated) are indirectly held.

Country  
of incorporation

Country  
of operation

Principal activity

Percentage 

holding Footnotes

Registered 
address

OPECO Vietnam Limited

SOCO Vietnam Ltd

Pharos Exploration Limited

Pharos Finance (Jersey) Limited

Pharos SEA Limited

Cook Islands

Vietnam

Oil and gas development and production

Cayman Islands

Vietnam

Oil and gas development and production

Jersey

Jersey

Jersey

–

–

–

Investment holding

Group financing

Investment holding

SOCO Exploration (Vietnam) Limited

Cayman Islands

Vietnam

Oil and gas exploration

SOCO DRC Limited

OPECO, Inc

Pharos El Fayum

Cayman Islands

USA

–

–

–

Investment holding

Cayman Islands

Egypt

Oil and gas development and production

Pharos Management Services, Inc.

USA

USA

Management services

100

100

100

100

100

100

85

100

100

100

2,6

2,5

1,4

1

1

2,7

2,3,4

2,6

1

2

e

d

a

a

a

d

d

c

d

c

Footnotes:
Group investments
1 
Investments held directly by Pharos Energy Plc.
2  Investments held indirectly by Pharos Energy Plc.
3  Dormant pending voluntary dissolution.
4  Pharos Exploration Limited is the 85% shareholder of Pharos DRC Limited, which wholly owns Pharos Exploration & Production DRC SARL. The 15% non-controlling interest  

is held by Quantic group of companies, of which Rui de Sousa is a 50% beneficial interest holder (see Note 35).

Joint operations
5  SOCO Vietnam Ltd holds a 28.5% working interest in Block 16-1, TGT Field. The Field operational base is development/production and is operated by Hoang Long Joint 

Operating Company which is registered in Vietnam. SOCO Vietnam Ltd holds a 25% working interest in Block 9-2, CNV Field. The Field operational base is development/
production and is operated by Hoan Vu Joint Operating Company which is registered in Vietnam.

6  OPECO Vietnam Limited holds a 2% working interest in Block 16-1, TGT Field. The Field operational base is development/production and is operated by Hoang Long Joint 

Operating Company which is registered in Vietnam.

7  SOCO Exploration (Vietnam) Limited holds a 70% working interest in Blocks 125 & 126 and is the Operator. The operating office is registered in Vietnam. The main activity is 

exploration.

Registered addresses
(a) 47 Esplanade, St Helier, Jersey, JE1 0BD, Channel Islands
(b) 48 Dover Street, London, W1S 4FF, United Kingdom
(c) Corporation Trust Center, 1209 Orange Street, Wilmington, DE 19801, USA
(d) Grand Pavilion, 802 West Bay Road, PO Box 1968, Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands, KY1-1104
(e) T&F Chambers, Main Road, Rarotonga, Cook Islands

Divestments:
The following subsidiary undertaking was liquidated during the year:

•  SOCO Exploration & Production DRC SARL

The Company’s investments in subsidiary undertakings include contributions to the Pharos Employee Benefit Trust (see Note 28)  
and are otherwise held in the form of share capital.

In 2019 the increase in investment value of $142.5m was due mainly to investment in the newly acquired Egypt subsidiaries of $215.2m 
(see Note 37) offset by an impairment to investment in subsidiaries of $39.1m and a reduction in investment due to repayment of 
investment loan of ($33.6m). 

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18  Other non-current assets
Other non-current assets comprise the Group’s share of contributions made into two abandonment security funds which were 
established to ensure that sufficient funds exist to meet future abandonment obligations on TGT and CNV fields. The funds are operated 
by PetroVietnam and the JOC partners retain the legal rights to the funds pending commencement of abandonment operations. 
The Group doesn’t expect to receive cash or another financial asset from PetroVietnam. During 2019, the Group has contributed $3.3m 
(2018: $3.4m). As at 31 December 2019 the Group’s total contribution to the funds was $43.6m (2018: $40.6m, of which $0.3m was the 
non-current part of the fair value of the consideration for the sale of Congo).

19 

Inventories

Crude oil and condensate

Warehouse stocks and materials

2019
$ million

8.2

8.0

16.2

Group

2018
$ million

4.1

–

4.1

2019
$ million

–

–

–

Company

2018
$ million

–

–

–

Crude oil and condensate are valued at net realisable value in line with well established industry practice with changes in hydrocarbon 
inventories adjusted through cost of sales (see Note 7). The warehouse stock and materials inventory of $8m are all related to Egypt. 

20  Trade and other receivables

Amounts falling due within one year

Trade receivables

Other receivables

Prepayments and accrued income

2019
$ million

31.5

0.7

9.0

41.2

Group

2018
$ million

16.8

1.5

1.3

19.6

2019
$ million

Company

2018
$ million

–

–

0.5

0.5

–

–

0.9

0.9

There is no material difference between the carrying amount of trade and other receivables and their fair value.

Included in trade and other receivables arising from South East Asia and Egypt at 31 December 2019 are trade receivables of $16.2m and 
$14.0m respectively, which arose from the Group’s two largest customers (2018: $8.0m and $7.8m from the Group’s two largest 
customers in South East Asia). 

In Vietnam, there are no amounts overdue or allowances for doubtful debts in respect of trade or other receivables (2018: nil). In Egypt, 
the average credit period on sales is 180 days (the credit period as at acquisition date was 191 days). No interest is charged on 
outstanding trade receivables.

Trade and other receivables are financial assets and measured at amortised cost. The Group applies the IFRS 9 simplified approach to 
measuring expected credit losses (‘ECL’) which uses a lifetime expected loss allowance for all trade receivables. As mentioned above, 
96% of our trade receivables are concentrated with two largest customers, one of them being a subsidiary of a government regulated 
entity and the other being a major global oil & gas company. As of 31 December 2019 and 2018, we have concluded that the ECL related 
to our trade receivables is immaterial. 

21  Cash and cash equivalents and liquid investments
As at 31 December 2019, cash and cash equivalents of $58.5m (2018: $240.1m), which are presented as a single class of asset on the 
balance sheet, comprise cash at bank and other short-term highly liquid investments that are readily convertible to a known amount of 
cash and which are subject to an insignificant risk of change in value. Of this balance, $2.8m (2018: $157.3m) were in Money Market Funds 
that are valued at quoted prices of the funds in the active markets for the financial instruments. The Money Market Funds were recorded 
at fair value at the year end. 

The cash and cash equivalents include $2.7m (2018: $0) of restricted cash, which is related to the bank guarantees in place for the Israeli 
offshore exploration licences. 

22  Trade and other payables

Trade payables

Other payables

Derivative financial instruments (see Note 25)

Accruals and deferred income

Liability for onerous commitments

146

2019
$ million

11.9

7.5

3.0

13.1

–

35.5

Group

2018
$ million

1.0

8.1

–

13.2

0.6

22.9

2019
$ million

Company

2018
$ million

–

2.1

–

3.4

–

5.5

–

1.6

–

7.9

–

9.5

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019There is no material difference between the carrying value of trade payables and their fair value. The above trade and other payables are 
held at amortised cost and are not discounted as the impact would not be material.

Trade and other payables are financial liabilities and are therefore measured at amortised cost.

In Vietnam, the average credit period for settlement of trade payables is standard 30 days or later if this falls within the agreed terms. In 
Egypt, the average credit period for settlement of trade payables as at 31 December 2019 is 220 days (the credit period for settlement 
of trade payables as at acquisition date was 254 days).

The Group does not utilise any supplier financing (reverse factoring) arrangements. The Group has financial risk management policies in 
place to ensure that all payables are paid within the pre-agreed credit terms. Further information relating to financial risks and how the 
Group mitigate these risks are discussed in the Risk Management Report on pages 46 to 55.

23  Deferred tax
The following are the major deferred tax liabilities recognised by the Group and movements thereon during the current and prior 
reporting period:

As at 1 January 2018

Charge to income

As at 1 January 2019

(Credit)/charge to income (see Note 12)

As at 31 December 2019

Accelerated tax 
depreciation 
$ million

Other  
temporary 
differences 
$ million

130.5

9.2

139.7

(5.9)

133.8

2.1

–

2.1

1.9

4.0

Group 
$ million

132.6

9.2

141.8

(4.0)

137.8

There are no unprovided deferred taxation balances at either balance sheet date except in relation to gross losses that are not expected 
to be utilised in the amount of $173.7m (2018: $151.1m). The gross losses have no expiry date.

24  Borrowings

Borrowings:

Fair value of bank loans

Less unamortised issue costs and debt arrangement fees

Carrying value of total debt

Current

Non-current

Carrying value of total debt

Movements in financing related liabilities

Carrying value of total debt as of 31 December 2018

Interest payable as of 31 December 2018 disclosed as part of Trade and other payables 

Amortisation of capitalised borrowing costs (see Note 9)

Interest payable and similar fees (see Note 9)

Interest paid during the year

Carrying value of total debt

2019 
$ million

Group

2018 
$ million

100.0

(1.9)

98.1

26.4

71.7

98.1

100.0

(4.4)

95.6

–

95.6

95.6

95.6

0.5

96.1

2.7

7.0

(7.7)

98.1

In September 2018, the Group signed a new $125m Reserve Based Lending facility (‘RBL’) secured against the Group’s producing assets 
in Vietnam. In addition to the committed $125m, a further $125m is available on an uncommitted accordion basis. The RBL has a five-year 
term, bears interest at 4% plus LIBOR up to Year 2, increasing to 4.15% for Year 3 and 4.25% for Year 4 and 5, and matures in September 
2023. On 17 December 2018 $100m was drawn down against the facility to part fund the Egypt acquisition. 

The maximum borrowing base available under the RBL is determined periodically via a redetermination process by the relevant banks, 
based on an estimate of the value of the Group’s reserves from its producing interests in Vietnam. The $26.4m, categorised as current, is 
based on our latest understanding of the RBL redetermination criteria and will change following the June 2020 redetermination. 

The RBL is subject to a number of financial covenants, all of which have been complied with during the 2019 reporting period. 

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25  Hedge transactions
During 2019, Pharos entered into different commodity (swap and zero collar) hedges, to protect its cash position and to ensure future 
compliance with its obligations under the RBL over the producing assets in Vietnam. The commodity hedges run until June 2020 and are 
settled monthly. The hedging positions in place cover 57% of the Group’s forecast H1 2020 entitlement volumes securing a minimum 
price for this hedged volume of $60.7 per barrel. 

Pharos has designated the swaps and zero collar as cash flow hedges, measured at Fair Value through Other Comprehensive Income 
(FVOCI). This means that any unrealised gains or losses on open positions will be reflected in other comprehensive income. Every month, 
the realised gain or loss will be reflected in the revenue line of the income statement. The carrying amount of the swap is based on the 
fair value determined by a financial institution. As all material inputs are observable, they are categorised within Level 2 in the fair value 
hierarchy. It is presented in “Trade and other receivables” or “Trade and other payables” in the consolidated statement of financial 
position. The liability position as of December 2019 was $3.0m. The reclassification to profit or loss corresponding to the realised gain or 
loss is included in “Revenue” in the consolidated income statement (as at 31 December amounts to a loss of $0.2m). The outstanding 
unrealised loss on open position as at 31 December 2019 amounts to $2.6m.

26  Long-term provisions
Decommissioning

As at 1 January

New provisions and changes in estimates

Unwinding of discount (see Note 9)

As at 31 December 

2019 
$ million

51.7

7.2

1.6

60.5

Group

2018 
$ million

52.7

(2.4)

1.4

51.7

The provision for decommissioning is based on the net present value of the Group’s share of the expenditure which may be incurred 
at the end of the producing life of the TGT and CNV fields in Vietnam (currently estimated to be 11-12 years) in the removal and 
decommissioning of the facilities currently in place. No decommissioning obligations exist in Egypt under the terms of the concession 
agreement. The provision is calculated using an inflation rate of 2.0% (2018: 2.0%) and a discount rate of 1.9% (2018: 3%). The $7.2m 
increase in provision primarily resulted from the reduction in the discount rate in 2019.

27  Share capital
Ordinary Shares of £0.05 each

Issued and fully paid

2019 
Shares

2018 
Shares

406,637,952

341,076,911

2019 
$ million

31.9

2018 
$ million

27.6

As at 31 December 2019 authorised share capital comprised 600 million (2018: 600 million) ordinary shares of £0.05 each with a total 
nominal value of £30m (2018: £30m). In 2019, as part of the consideration paid for the acquisition of Egypt Assets , 65,561,041 shares were 
issued at a price of £0.699 per share and converted at the exchange rate as of 02/04/19 of 1.3031. Of the total $59.7m consideration paid, 
$55.4m are disclosed as share premium (see Note 37). The Company did not issue any new ordinary shares during 2018.

148

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 201928  Other reserves

As at 1 January 2018

Currency exchange translation differences

Share-based payments

Transfer relating to share-based payments

Capital 
redemption 
reserve 
$ million

100.3

–

–

–

Merger  
reserve 
$ million

188.7

–

–

–

Own shares 
$ million

(47.1)

–

–

–

As at 1 January 2019

100.3

188.7

(47.1)

Currency exchange translation differences

Other comprehensive income

Share-based payments

Transfer relating to share-based payments

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

As at 31 December 2019

100.3

188.7

(47.1)

Hedging 
reserve
$million

Share-based 
payments 
$ million

–

–

–

–

–

–

(2.6)

–

–

(2.6)

4.0

(1.4)

3.0

(0.9)

4.7

0.4

–

3.7

(1.5)

7.3

As at 1 January 2018

Currency exchange translation differences

Share-based payments

Transfer relating to share-based payments

As at 1 January 2019

Currency exchange translation differences

Share-based payments

Transfer relating to share-based payments

As at 31 December 2019

Capital 
redemption 
reserve 
$ million

Merger reserve 
$ million

Own shares 
$ million

Share-based 
payments 
$ million

100.3

131.8

(40.3)

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

100.3

131.8

(40.3)

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

100.3

131.8

(40.3)

4.0

(1.4)

3.0

(0.7)

4.9

0.4

3.7

(1.5)

7.5

Group

Total 
$ million

245.9

(1.4)

3.0

(0.9)

246.6

0.4

(2.6)

3.7

(1.5)

246.6

Company

Total 
$ million

195.8

(1.4)

3.0

(0.7)

196.7

0.4

3.7

(1.5)

199.3

The Group’s other reserves comprise reserves arising in respect of merger relief, upon the purchase of the Company’s own shares held 
in treasury and held by the Trust, as well as hedging and share-based payments.

The number of treasury shares held by the Group and the number of shares held by the Trust at 31 December 2019 was 9,122,268  
(2018: 9,122,268) and 2,897,094 (2018: 2,897,094) respectively. The market price of the shares at 31 December 2019 was £0.5320 
(2018: £0.6890). The Trust, a discretionary trust, holds shares for the purpose of satisfying employee share schemes, details of which are 
set out in Note 31 and in the Directors’ Remuneration Report on pages 96 to 117. 

The trustees purchase shares in the open market which are recognised by the Company within investments and classified as other 
reserves by the Group as described above. When award conditions are met, an unconditional transfer of shares is made out of the Trust 
to Plan participants. The Group has an obligation to make regular contributions to the Trust to enable it to meet its financing costs. Rights 
to dividends on the shares held by the Trust have been waived by the trustees.

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29  Distribution to shareholders
In May 2019, the Company paid dividends to shareholders of $27.4m (2018: $23.3m) or 5.50 pence per Ordinary Share (2018: 5.25 pence 
per Ordinary Share).

The Pharos EBT, which is consolidated within the Group, waived its rights to receive a dividend in 2019 and 2018.

We announced in January of this year, our intention to pay a dividend of 2.75 pence per Ordinary Share in 2020. We have now entered a 
period of global economic uncertainty, driven by the outbreak of Covid-19 and the pressure that this is putting on oil price against this 
backdrop. The Company is focused on preserving balance sheet strength and has therefore decided to defer all discretionary 
expenditure including the dividend until such time as the medium to long term outlook is clearer.

30  Retained earnings

As at 1 January 2018

Profit for the year

Unrealised currency translation differences

Distributions

Transfer relating to share-based payments

As at 1 January 2019

Loss for the year

Unrealised currency translation differences

Distributions (see Note 29)

Transfer relating to share-based payments

As at 31 December 2019

As at 1 January 2018

Profit for the year

Unrealised currency translation differences

Distributions

Transfer relating to share-based payments

As at 1 January 2019

Profit for the year

Unrealised currency translation differences

Distributions (see Note 29)

Transfer relating to share-based payments

As at 31 December 2019

Unrealised 
currency 
translation 
differences 
$ million

Retained profit 
$ million

216.2

27.7

–

(23.3)

0.9

221.5

(24.5)

–

(27.4)

1.5

171.1

4.9

–

0.2

–

–

5.1

–

–

–

–

5.1

Unrealised 
currency 
translation 
differences 
$ million

(198.8)

–

(24.8)

–

–

(223.6)

–

–

–

–

(223.6)

Retained profit 
$ million

356.1

159.9

–

(23.3)

0.8

493.5

24.4

–

(27.4)

1.5

492.0

Group

Total 
$ million

221.1

27.7

0.2

(23.3)

0.9

226.6

(24.5)

–

(27.4)

1.5

176.2

Company

Total 
$ million

157.3

159.9

(24.8)

(23.3)

0.8

269.9

24.4

–

(27.4)

1.5

268.4

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019Incentive plans

31 
Details of the Group’s employee incentive schemes are set out below. Additional information regarding the schemes is included 
in the Directors’ Remuneration Report on pages 96 to 117. The Group recognised total expenses of $4.0m (2018: $2.0m) in respect of the 
schemes during the year, a proportion of which was capitalised in accordance with the Group’s accounting policies.

Long Term Incentive Plan
The Company operates a LTIP for senior employees of the Group. Awards vest over a period of three years, subject to performance 
criteria which have been set with reference to the Company’s TSR relative to a range of comparator companies. Consideration may also 
be given to assessment as to whether the TSR performance is consistent with underlying performance. Awards are normally forfeited if 
the employee leaves the Group before the award vests. Awards normally expire at the end of 10 years following the date of grant, subject 
to the requirement to exercise certain awards prior to 15 March of the year following vesting.

Awards would normally be part cash and part equity-settled through a transfer at nil consideration of the Company’s ordinary shares. No 
awards were exercised during 2019. The Company has no legal or constructive obligation to repurchase or settle awards in cash. Details 
of awards outstanding during the year are as follows:

As at 1 January

Adjustments1

Granted

Exercised

Forfeited during the year

As at 31 December

Exercisable as at 31 December

2019 
No. of share 
awards

2018 
No. of share 
awards

12,727,674

1,430,392

7,597,799

–

(3,075,108)

18,680,757

8,742,295

553,501

4,983,108

–

(1,551,230)

12,727,674

–

–

1 

In accordance with Share Scheme rules, adjustments were made for the payment of dividends in 2019 and 2018.

Awards outstanding at the end of the year have a weighted average remaining contractual life of 1.5 (2018: 1.4) years. The weighted 
average market price and estimated fair value of the 2019 grants (at grant date) were £0.69 and £0.55, respectively.

The fair value of the LTIPs granted during 2019 and 2018 has been provided by FIT Remuneration Consultants, which estimates the 
Company’s performance against the targets using a Monte Carlo Model. The future vesting proportion in 2019 was 55% (2018: 55%). 

Previously, the fair value of awards at date of grant had been estimated using a binomial option pricing model, based on the market price 
at date of grant and a nil exercise price. The future vesting proportion in 2017 of 40% was estimated by calculating the expected 
probability of the Company’s TSR ranking relative to its comparators based on modelling each company’s projected future share 
price growth.

Other Share Schemes
The Company operates a discretionary share option scheme for employees of the Group. Awards vest over a three-year period, and are 
normally forfeited if the employee leaves the Group before the option vests. Vested options are exercisable at a price equal to the 
average quoted market price of the Company’s shares on the date of grant and are expected to be equity-settled. The Company has no 
legal or constructive obligation to repurchase or settle options in cash. Unexercised options expire at the end of a 10-year period.

Other than to Directors, the Company can also grant options with a zero exercise price or with an exercise price which is set below 
the market price of the Company’s shares on the date of grant. Such options, which are included in the table below, are granted 
by reference to the rules of the discretionary share option scheme and are expected to be equity-settled.

The Company can additionally grant awards under the Deferred Share Bonus Plan with a zero exercise price or with an exercise price 
which is set below the market price of the Company’s shares on the date of grant. Awards vest over a two-year period, and are normally 
forfeited if the employee leaves the Group before the option vests. Such awards, which are also included in the table below, are 
expected to be cash-settled.

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31 

Incentive plans continued

As at 1 January

Adjustments1

Granted

Forfeited during the year

Expired

Exercised

As at 31 December

No. of share 
awards

2,407,875

125,552

1,358,175

(31,567)

–

(74,246)

3,785,789

2019

Weighted 
average 
exercise price 
£

2018

Weighted  
average 
exercise price 
£

No. of share 
awards

0.54

2,836,050

–

–

2.26

–

–

0.47

37,484

791,432

(7,914)

–

(1,249,177)

2,407,875

0.46

–

–

1.05

–

–

0.54

1.29

Exercisable as at 31 December

1,492,425

0.83

867,836

1 

In accordance with Share Scheme rules, adjustments were made for the payment of dividends in 2019 and 2018.

The weighted average market price at the date of exercise during 2019 was £0.65 (2018: £0.96). Awards outstanding at the end of the 
year have a weighted average remaining contractual life of 7.3 (2018: 6.3) years. The weighted average market price and estimated fair 
value of the discretionary share option scheme 2019 grants (at grant date) were £0.689 and £0.37, respectively. The weighted average 
market price and estimated fair value of the deferred share bonus scheme 2019 grants (at grant date) was £0.995 (2018: £0.995).

The fair value of awards granted during 2019 and 2018 has been provided by FIT Remuneration Consultants, which estimates the 
Company’s performance against the targets using a Monte Carlo Model. Previously, the fair value of discretionary share option scheme 
awards at date of grant has been estimated using a binomial option pricing model, based on the market price at date of grant and the fair 
value of deferred share bonus scheme awards at date of grant was estimated based on the market price at date of grant.

32  Reconciliation of operating profit to operating cash flows

Operating profit/(loss)

Share-based payments

Depletion, depreciation and amortisation

Reversal of impairment charge

Operating cash flows before movements in working capital

(Increase) decrease in inventories

(Increase) decrease in receivables

(Decrease) increase in payables

Cash generated by (used in) operations

Interest received

Interest paid

Other/ exceptional expense outflow

Income taxes paid

Net cash from (used in) continuing operating activities

Net cash used in discontinued operating activities

Net cash from (used in) operating activities

2019
$ million

Group

2018
$ million

2019
$ million

Company

2018
$ million

38.0

3.7

75.5

–

117.2

(0.5)

(1.7)

(2.0)

113.0

2.2

–

(2.4)

(40.5)

72.3

–

72.3

79.9

2.5

52.1

(37.8)

96.7

0.1

1.2

3.4

101.4

2.6

(0.1)

–

(48.0)

55.9

(1.7)

54.2

(21.1)

3.7

0.9

–

(16.5)

–

0.6

(3.6)

(19.5)

1.0

(0.2)

(2.4)

–

(21.1)

–

(21.1)

(26.7)

2.5

0.3

–

(23.9)

–

(0.7)

1.4

(23.2)

–

–

–

–

(23.2)

–

(23.2)

During the year, a total of $27.5m of trade receivables due from EGPC in Egypt were settled by way of non-cash offset against trade 
payables, including $13.6m related to the Merlon acquisition (see Note 37).

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 201933  Lease arrangements
This note explains the impact of the adoption of IFRS 16 Leases on the Group’s financial statements and discloses the new accounting 
policy in relation to leases that has been applied from 1 January 2019. 

On adoption of IFRS 16, the Group recognised lease liabilities in relation to leases which had previously been classified as ‘operating 
leases’ under the principles of IAS 17 Leases. For short-term leases (lease term less than 12 months) and leases of low value assets the 
Group has opted to recognise a lease expense on a straight-line basis as permitted by IFRS 16.

Lease liabilities were measured at the present value of the remaining lease payments, discounted using the interest rate implicit in the 
lease (if available), or the incremental borrowing rate as of 1 January 2019 or start of the lease, whichever is earlier. The weighted average 
lessee’s incremental borrowing rate applied to the lease liabilities on 1 January 2019 was 4.43%.

The Group impact of the transition has resulted in an upward revision of both property, plant and equipment and current and non-current 
lease liabilities. Financing cash flows represent repayment of principal and interest. In prior periods operating lease payments were all 
presented as operating cash flows under IAS 17.

Operating lease commitments disclosed as at 31 December 2018

Lease commitments not recognised as such under IFRS 16

Lease liability as at 1 January 2019 undiscounted

Discounted using the lessee’s incremental borrowing rate at the date of initial application

Lease liability recognised as at 1 January 2019

New lease during 2019

Renewal of lease during 2019

Discounted using the lessee’s incremental borrowing rate at the date of initial application

Interest expense

Foreign exchange adjustments

Principal repayments

Lease liability recognised as at 31 December 2019

Of which are: 

  Current lease liabilities

  Non-current lease liabilities

Right of use assets recognised as at 31 December 2019:

 Oil & Gas properties

 Other assets

$ million

55.9

(54.0)

1.9

(0.1)

1.8

1.4

6.9

(1.7)

0.3

(0.3)

(1.2)

7.2

0.8

6.4

0.9

6.4

The FPSO leased by HLJOC is not recognised as a lease under IFRS 16 (lease commitments as of 31 December 2018: $54.0m) as the 
asset is shared, in accordance with a tie in agreement, with a third party which utilises around 30% of the capacity of the FPSO. The 
FPSO facility is not considered an identified asset under IFRS 16 as HLJOC does not utilise substantially all the capacity.

34  Capital commitments
At 31 December 2019 the Group had exploration licence commitments not accrued of approximately $40.2m (2018: $25.8m).

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35  Related party transactions
During the year, the Company recorded a net cost of $0.2m (2018: net cost of $0.6m) in respect of services rendered between 
Group companies.

Remuneration of key management personnel
The remuneration of the Directors of the Company, who are considered to be its key management personnel, is set out below 
in aggregate for each of the categories specified in IAS 24 Related Party Disclosures. Further information about the remuneration 
of individual Directors is provided in the audited part of the Directors’ Remuneration Report on pages 96 to 117.

Short-term employee benefits

Post-employment benefits

Share-based payments

2019 
$ million

2018 
$ million

4.8

0.3

2.8

7.9

5.9

0.3

1.5

7.7

Directors’ transactions
Pursuant to a lease dated 20 April 1997, Comfort Storyville (a company wholly owned by Mr Ed Story) has leased to the Group, office and 
storage space in Comfort, Texas, USA. The lease, which was negotiated on an arm’s length basis, has a fixed monthly rent of $1,000.

Under the terms of an acquisition approved by shareholders in 1999, the Company and its Investor Group, including Quantic group 
of companies, of which Mr Rui de Sousa is a 50% beneficial interest holder, jointly participated in certain regions in which the Investor 
Group utilised its long established industry and government relationships to negotiate and secure commercial rights in oil and gas 
projects. In the 2004 Annual Report and Accounts the form of participation to be utilised was set out to be through equity shareholdings 
in which the Investor Group holds a non-controlling interest in special purpose entities created to hold such projects. The shareholding 
terms were modelled after the Vietnam arrangement which was negotiated with third parties. The non-controlling holdings by Quantic 
group of companies in the subsidiary undertakings, which principally affected the profits or net assets of the Group, are shown in Note 
17. The Group has entered into a consulting agreement, which is terminable by either party on 30 days’ written notice, wherein Quantic 
Limited, which is part of the Quantic group companies, is entitled to a consulting fee in the amount of $50,000 per month in respect of 
such services as are required to review, assess and progress the realisation of oil and gas exploration and production opportunities in 
certain areas. As of February 2019, the consulting agreement with Pharos and Quantic has been terminated and no further consulting 
fees will be paid. 

36  Disposal of Africa interest
Disposal of Congo interest
On 24 June 2018, Pharos signed and completed a sale and purchase agreement with Coastal Energy Congo Limited (Coastal Energy), to 
sell its entire shareholding in SOCO Congo Limited, a Cayman Islands company, which holds the Group’s exploration interests in Congo 
(Brazzaville). Under the terms of the agreement the Group is entitled to receive a cash consideration of up to $10m plus subsequent 
payments based on future oil and condensate production sold from those interests in Congo (royalty). The fair value of the financial asset 
at 31 December 2018 was $0.5m. Pharos understands that Coastal Energy has not been and may never be recognised as operator by the 
Congolese Ministry of Hydrocarbons. As a consequence, Pharos has revised the fair value of the consideration to $0m. In addition, 
accrued balances of $2.7m held on Pharos’s balance sheet have now been released to the income statement as they are deemed highly 
unlikely ever to be incurred. The overall net gain from these discontinued operations as of 31 December 2019 amounts to $2.0m. 

37  Acquisition of Egypt assets
On 2 April 2019, Pharos Energy announced the completion of the acquisition of 100% of Merlon Petroleum El Fayum Company (“Merlon”) 
from Merlon International LLC (the “Seller”). Pharos Energy agreed to acquire Merlon in consideration for approximately $136m in cash 
and the issue of 65,561,041 new Pharos Energy ordinary shares of £0.05 each. In addition, debt of $19.4m due by Merlon was repaid. 

Merlon’s principal asset is a 100% working interest in the onshore El Fayum Concession in Egypt. The El Fayum Concession covers an 
area of 1,826 km2 and is located c.80km south west of Cairo. 

The Egyptian Minister of Petroleum and Mineral Resources approved the transaction on 28 March 2019 and the transaction completed 
on 2 April 2019. All Merlon assets and liabilities were valued at that date in accordance with IFRS 3 and incorporated into Pharos’ balance 
sheet at those values. The results of the Merlon operations are included in the income statement from that date.

The acquisition of Merlon is a significant step forward in Pharos’ stated objective of expanding and diversifying its resource base to 
create a full-cycle, growth orientated E&P company of scale. Pharos views Merlon as a highly strategic platform to enable future organic 
and inorganic growth in Egypt and the wider Middle East & North Africa (“MENA”) region. 

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019Acquisition-related costs
Pharos incurred acquisition related costs in the period of $1.0m on legal fees and due diligence costs. These costs have been included 
in ‘administrative expenses’.

An assignment fee of $13.6m, payable to EGPC, was later settled through a non-cash offset against receivables due from EGPC. 

Consideration paid
Details of the purchase consideration and the net assets acquired are set out below. No goodwill arose on this transaction. 

Purchase consideration:

Cash paid

Ordinary shares issued – equity

Ordinary shares issued – share premium

RBL repayment

Total purchase consideration

02.04.19
$ million

136.1

4.3

55.4

19.4

215.2

The net cash paid for the acquisition was $153.1m, being $136.1m in cash, plus the repayment of $19.4m for the RBL, offset by the balance 
acquired of $2.4m.

The fair value of the 65,561,041 shares issued as part of the consideration paid was based on the published share price on 02/04/19 of 
£0.699 per share and converted at the exchange rate as of 02/04/19 of 1.3031.

Identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed
The assets and liabilities recognised as a result of the acquisition are as follows: 

Plant and equipment 

Other fixed assets

Inventories 

Trade receivables

Other receivables

Cash

Trade payables

Other payables

Total identifiable net assets acquired

02.04.19
$ million

183.8

0.9

10.7

29.9

5.6

2.4

(17.5)

(0.6)

215.2

Measurement of fair value
The valuation techniques used for measuring the fair value of material assets acquired were as follows:

The fair values of the oil and gas properties acquired have been determined using discounted cash flows, forward curve commodity 
prices at the acquisition date ($65/bbl for 2020 plus inflation of 2% thereafter), a post-tax nominal discount rate of 12% based on market 
observable data and cost and production profiles consistent with the estimated hydrocarbon reserves acquired with each asset. The 
estimated hydrocarbon reserves were proved and probable reserves together with 60% of the estimated 2C contingent resources, with 
the underlying data for such reserves based on the Competent Persons Report prepared for the purposes of the transaction.

The fair value of trade receivables has been estimated after taking into consideration the credit default rate for the Egyptian Government 
(as no direct reference point for EGPC is available), which is considered to represent a Level 2 fair value under the IFRS 13 fair value 
hierarchy, as it is based on quoted prices for identical or similar assets in markets that are not active.

From the date of acquisition to 31 December 2019, Merlon contributed $34.4m to Group revenue and decreased the Group’s profit 
before tax from continuing operations by $10.1m, which includes the assignment fee payment of $13.6m.

If the acquisition of Merlon had taken place at the beginning of the year, Merlon’s contribution to Group revenue for the period ended 
31 December 2019 would be $46.5m and would have reduced the Group’s profit before tax from continuing operations by $8.7m.

38   Subsequent events
Subsequent to year end, global oil prices have fallen by approximately 50%, partly due to the global outbreak of the COVID-19 virus and 
partly due to Saudi Arabia’s decision to increase production. Although it is not possible to reliably estimate the length or severity of this 
development, and hence their financial impact, if oil prices remain at or below currently prevailing levels for an extended period of time, 
this could have a significant adverse impact on our financial results for future periods.

24.Pharos Energy 5922 AR Notes_20-04-08.indd   155

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08/04/2020   13:31

Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCE REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATION 
NON-IFRS MEASURES

Non-IFRS measures
The Group uses certain measures of performance that are not specifically defined under IFRS or other generally accepted accounting 
principles. These non-IFRS measures include cash operating costs per barrel, DD&A per barrel, gearing and operating cash per share.  
For the new RBL covenant compliance, three new Non-IFRS measures have been added: Net debt, EBITDAX and Net debt/EBITDAX.

Cash operating costs per barrel
Cash operating costs are defined as cost of sales less depreciation, depletion and amortisation, production based taxes, movement in 
inventories and certain other immaterial cost of sales. 

Cash operating costs for the period is then divided by barrels of oil equivalent produced. This is a useful indicator of cash operating 
costs incurred to produce oil and gas from the Group’s producing assets. 

Cost of sales

Less:

Depreciation, depletion and amortisation

Production based taxes

Inventories

Other cost of sales

Cash operating costs

Production (BOEPD)

Cash operating cost per BOE ($)

Cash operating cost per barrel by segment (2019)

Cost of sales

Depreciation, depletion and amortisation

Production based taxes

Inventories

Other cost of sales

Cash operating costs

Production (BOEPD)

Cash operating cost per BOE ($)

*  Vietnam only. 
**  Egypt from the date of acquisition to 31 December 2019.

2019 
$ million

128.6

2018* 
$ million

104.6

(74.4)

(12.3)

3.5

(3.9)

41.5

12,136

10.45

(51.8)

(15.1)

(0.1)

(1.4)

36.2

7,274

13.63

Vietnam 
$ million

Egypt** 
$ million

Total 
$ million

99.1

(60.2)

(12.3)

3.5

(2.5)

27.6

7,081

10.69

29.5

(14.2)

–

–

(1.4)

13.9

128.6

(74.4)

(12.3)

3.5

(3.9)

41.5

5,055

12,136

10.01

10.45

DD&A per barrel
DD&A per barrel is calculated as net book value of oil and gas assets in production, together with estimated future development 
costs over the remaining 2P reserves. This is a useful indicator of ongoing rates of depreciation and amortisation of the Group’s 
producing assets.

Depreciation, depletion and amortisation

Production (BOEPD)

DD&A per BOE ($)

DD&A per barrel by segment (2019)

Depreciation, depletion and amortisation

Production (BOEPD)

DD&A per BOE ($)

*  Vietnam only.
**  Egypt from the date of acquisition to 31 December 2019.

156

2019 
$ million

74.4

12,136

18.74

Egypt** 
$ million

14.2

5,055

10.25

2018* 
$ million

51.8

7,274

19.51

Total 
$ million

74.4

12,136

18.74

Vietnam 
$ million

60.2

7,081

23.29

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019NON-IFRS MEASURES CONTINUED

Net debt
Net debt comprises interest-bearing bank loans, less cash and short-term deposits.

Cash and cash equivalents

Borrowings

Net (Debt)/Cash

2019 
$ million

58.5

(100.0)

2018 
$ million

240.1

(100.0)

(41.5)

140.1

EBITDAX
EBITDAX is earnings from continuing activities before interest, tax, depreciation, amortisation, reversal of impairment, and exploration 
expenditure and exceptional items in the current year. 

Operating profit

Depreciation, depletion and amortisation

Reversal of impairment charge

EBITDAX

2019 
$ million

2018 
$ million

38.0

75.5

–

113.5

79.9

52.1

(37.8)

94.2

Net debt/EBITDAX
Net Debt/EBITDAX ratio expresses how many years it would take to repay the debt, if net debt and EBITDAX stay constant. 

Net (Debt)

EBITDAX

Net Debt/EBITDAX

2019 
$ million

2018 
$ million

(41.5)

113.5

0.37

–

–

–

Gearing
Debt to equity ratio is calculated by dividing interest-bearing bank loans by stockholder equity. The debt to equity ratio expresses the 
relationship between external equity (liabilities) and internal equity (stockholder equity). 

Total debt ($m)

Total equity ($m)

Debt to Equity

2019 
$ million

100.0

510.1

0.20

2018 
$ million

100.0

500.8

0.20

Operating cash per share
Operating cash per share is calculated by dividing net cash from (used in) continuing operations by number of shares in the year. 

Net cash from (used in)

Weighted number of shares in the year 

Operating cash per share

2019 
$ million

72.3

2018 
$ million

55.9

381,170,329

331,954,643

0.19

0.17

25.Pharos Energy 5922 AR Non-Measures-Stats_20-04-08.indd   157

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCE REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONFIVE YEAR SUMMARY (UNAUDITED)

Consolidated income statement

Oil and gas revenues

Gross profit

Operating profit

 (Loss)/profit for the year

Consolidated balance sheet

Non-current assets

Net current assets

Non-current liabilities

Net assets

Share capital

Other reserves

Retained earnings

Total equity

Consolidated cash flow statement

Net cash from operating activities

Capital expenditure

Distributions

*Restated in 2017 when adopted the successful efforts method.

RESERVES STATISTICS (UNAUDITED)

Net working interest, MMBOE

Oil and Gas 2P Commercial Reserves1,2

As at 1 January 2019

As at acquisition date

Production

Revision

2P Commercial Reserves as at 31 December 2019

Oil and Gas 2C Contingent Resources1,2

As at 1 January 2019

As at acquisition date

Revision5

2C Contingent Resources as at 31 December 2019

Total of 2P Reserves and 2C Contingent Resources  
as at 31 December 2019

Year to  
31 Dec 2019 
$ million

Year to  
31 Dec 2018 
$ million

(Restated)*
Year to  
31 Dec 2017 
$ million

(Not Restated) 
Year to  
31 Dec 2016 
$ million

(Not Restated) 
Year to  
31 Dec 2015 
$ million

189.9

61.1

38.0

(24.5)

175.1

70.5

79.9

27.7

156.2

41.2

22.9

(157.3)

154.6

34.7

23.4

(4.2)

214.8

48.4

2.0

(33.8)

2019 
$ million

2018 
$ million

(Restated) 
2017 
$ million

(Not Restated) 
2016 
$ million

(Not Restated) 
2015 
$ million

740.9

45.6

(276.4)

510.1

87.3

246.6

176.2

510.1

553.6

236.3

(289.1)

500.8

27.6

246.6

226.6

500.8

546.6

133.3

(185.3)

494.6

27.6

245.9

221.1

494.6

738.6

142.5

(209.9)

671.2

27.6

243.8

399.8

671.2

1,001.5

134.6

(243.6)

892.5

27.6

242.3

622.6

892.5

Year to  
31 Dec 2019 
$ million

Year to  
31 Dec 2018 
$ million

(Restated) 
Year to  
31 Dec 2017 
$ million

(Not Restated) 
Year to  
31 Dec 2016 
$ million

(Not Restated) 
Year to  
31 Dec 2015 
$ million

72.3

63.4

27.4

TGT

16.2

–

(2.0)

1.2

15.4

12.2

–

(3.7)

8.5

54.2

22.4

23.3

45.0

26.2

21.0

46.0

35.8

17.5

80.3

87.5

51.1

CNV

Vietnam3

Egypt4

Group

6.8

–

(0.6)

(0.2)

6.0

4.2

–

0.4

4.6

23.0

–

(2.6)

1.0

21.4

16.4

–

(3.3)

13.1

–

21.6

(1.4)

8.3

28.5

–

22.3

1.2

23.5

23.0

21.6

(4.0)

9.3

49.9

16.4

22.3

(2.1)

36.6

23.9

10.6

34.5

52.0

86.5

1  Reserves and Contingent Resources are categorised in line with 2018 SPE/WPC/AAPG/SPEE /SWLA Petroleum Resource Management System.
2  Assumes oil equivalent conversion factor of 6,000 scf/boe.
3  Reserves and Contingent Resources have been independently audited by Risc Advisory Pty Ltd.
4  Reserves and Contingent Resources have been independently audited by McDaniels.
5  Revisions to the assets come from the approach taken by the reserves auditor.  

Risks associated with reserves evaluation and estimation uncertainty are discussed in Note 4(b) to the Financial Statements.

158

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019REPORT ON PAYMENTS TO GOVERNMENTS (UNAUDITED)

Payment
The information is reported under the 
following payment types:

Production entitlements in barrels
These are the host government’s total 
share of production in the reporting period 
derived from projects operated by Pharos. 
This includes the government’s non-cash 
royalties as a sovereign entity or through 
its participation as an equity or interest 
holder in projects within its home country. 
The figures produced are on a paid lifting 
basis valued at realised sale prices.

Income Taxes
This represents cash tax calculated on the 
basis of profits including income or capital 
gains. Income taxes are usually reflected in 
corporate income tax returns. The cash 
payment of income taxes occurs in the 
year in which the tax has arisen or up to 
one year later. Income taxes also include 
any cash tax rebates received from the 
government or revenue authority during 
the year. Income taxes do not include 
fines and penalties. Consumption taxes 
including value adding taxes, personal 
income taxes, sales taxes and property 
taxes are excluded.

Royalties
These represent royalties during the year 
to governments for the right to extract oil 
or gas. The terms of these royalties are set 
within the individual Production Sharing 
Contracts & Agreements and can vary from 
project to project within a country. The 
cash payment of royalties occurs in the 
year in which the tax has arisen.

Dividends
These are dividend payments, other than 
dividends paid to a government as an 
ordinary shareholder of an entity, in lieu 
of production entitlements or royalties. 
For the year ending 31 December 2019, 
there were no reportable dividend 
payments to governments.

Bonuses
This represents any bonus paid to 
governments during the year on 
achievement of commercial milestones 
such as signing of a petroleum agreement 
or contract, achieving commercial 
discovery, or after first production.

Licence Fees
This represents licence fees, rental fees, 
entry fees and other consideration for 
licences and/or concessions paid for 
access to an area during the year (with the 
exception of signature bonuses which are 
captured within bonus payments).

Infrastructure improvement payments
This represents payments made in respect 
of infrastructure improvements for projects 
that are not directly related to oil and 
gas activities during the year. This can be a 
contractually obligated payment 
in a Production Sharing Contract or 
a discretionary payment for building/
improving local infrastructure such as 
roads, bridges, ports, schools and hospitals.

Payroll Taxes
This represents payroll and employer taxes 
including PAYE and national insurance paid 
by Pharos as a direct employer.

Export Duty
This represents payments made to 
governments during the year in relation 
to the exportation of petroleum products.

Withholding Tax
This represents the amount of tax 
deducted at source from third party 
service providers during the year and 
paid to respective governments.

Other Taxes
This represents business rates paid during 
the year on non-domestic properties.

Disclosure
In accordance with the Financial Conduct 
Authority’s Disclosure and Transparency 
Rule 4.3A in respect of payments made 
by the Company to governments for the 
year ended 31 December 2019 and in 
compliance with The Reports on 
Payments to Governments Regulations 
2014 (SI 2014/3209), Pharos presents 
its disclosure for the year ending 
31 December 2019.

Basis for preparation
Legislation
This report is prepared in accordance with 
the Reports on Payments to Governments 
Regulations 2014 as enacted in the UK 
in December 2014 and as amended 
in December 2015.

The Reports on Payments to Government 
Regulations (UK Regulations) were enacted 
on 1 December 2014 and require UK 
companies in extractive industries 
to publicly disclose payments they have 
made to Governments where they 
undertake extractive operations. The aim of 
the regulations is to enhance the 
transparency of the payments made 
by companies in the extractive sector 
to host governments in the form of taxes, 
bonuses, royalties, fees and support for 
infrastructure improvements. The UK 
Regulations came into effect on 
1 January 2015.

The payments disclosed for 2019 are in line 
with the EU Directive and UK Regulations 
and we have provided additional voluntary 
disclosures on payroll taxes, export duty, 
withholding tax and other taxes.

In line with the UK Regulations, a payment 
of a series of related payments which do 
not exceed $112,780 (£86,000) has not 
been disclosed. Where the aggregate 
payments made in the period for a project 
or country are less than $112,780, payments 
are not disclosed for the project or 
country.

All of the payments disclosed in 
accordance with the EU Directive have 
been made to National Governments, 
either directly or through a Ministry or 
Department, or to a national oil company, 
who have a working interest in a 
particular licence.

26.Pharos Energy 5922 AR Payments-To-Govs_20-04-08.indd   159

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCE REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONProduction  
entitlements

Production  
entitlements

Income  
Taxes

Royalties Dividends

Bonus 
Payments

Licence  
fees

Infrastructure 
improvement 
payments

Total EU 
Transparency 
Directive

Payroll  
Taxes

Export  
Duty

With- 
holding  
Tax

Other  
Taxes

Total

UK Regulations

Voluntary Disclosure

bbls (000)

$ 000’s

$ 000’s

$ 000’s

$ 000’s

$ 000’s

$ 000’s

$ 000’s

$ 000’s

$ 000’s $ 000’s $ 000’s $ 000’s

$ 000’s

–

–

–

78

75

153

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

13,600

2,380

–

15,980

–

–

–

–

–

15,980

153

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

126,878

38,590

165,468

–

–

–

59,958

494

2,380

62,338

–

–

–

–

–

494

3,131

3,131

–

712

712

227,806

4,337

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

284

284

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

778

778

299

299

3,430

3,430

–

–

–

–

712

712

284

299

4,920

TRANSPARENCY DISCLOSURE 2019 (UNAUDITED)

Licence/  
Corporate/  
Area

Vietnam*

Block 16–1

Block 9.2

1,311

622

83,420 33,589

30,072

6,744

9,521

1,699

Total Vietnam

1,933

113,492 40,603

11,220

Egypt**

El Fayum

North Beni 
Suef

Total Egypt

United 
Kingdom (UK)

Corporate

Total UK

United States 
of America (US)

Corporate

Total US

781

46,358

781

46,358

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

Pharos Total

2,714

159,850 40,603

11,220

TRANSPARENCY DISCLOSURE 2019 (UNAUDITED)

Production  
entitlements

Production  
entitlements

Income  
Taxes

Royalties Dividends

Bonus 
Payments

Licence  
fees

Infrastructure 
improvement 
payments

Total

Payroll  
Taxes

Export  
Duty

With- 
 holding  
Tax

Other  
Taxes

Total

UK Regulations

Voluntary Disclosure

bbls (000)

$ 000’s

$ 000’s

$ 000’s

$ 000’s

$ 000’s

$ 000’s

$ 000’s

$ 000’s

$ 000’s $ 000’s $ 000’s $ 000’s

$ 000’s

–

–

1,933

1,933

– 40,603

11,220

–

113,492

–

–

–

–

113,492 40,603

11,220

781

–

781

46,358

–

46,358

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

153

153

15,980

–

15,980

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

15,980

153

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

51,823

–

113,645

165,468

62,338

–

62,338

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

494

494

3,131

–

3,131

–

712

712

227,806

4,337

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

284

284

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

299

299

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

–

778

778

3,131

299

3,430

–

712

712

284

299

4.920

Country/ 
Government

Vietnam*

Ho Chi Minh 
City Tax Dept

Customs 
Office

PetroVietnam 
E&P Corp 
(PVEP)

Total Vietnam

Egypt**

Egyptian 
General 
Petroleum 
Corporation 
(EGPC)

Tax 
department

Total Egypt

United 
Kingdom (UK)

Inland Revenue

City of 
Westminster

Total UK

United States 
of America (US)

Internal 
Revenue 
Service

Total US

Pharos Total

2,714

159,850 40,603

11,220

*  Joint Operating Company Project’s tax payments reported on Pharos Net Working Interest Basis.
**  Egypt from the date of acquisition to 31 December 2019.

160

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019GLOSSARY OF TERMS

A

ABC
Anti-Bribery and Corruption
AGM
Annual General Meeting

B  
bbl
Barrel
blpd
Barrels of liquids per day
BMS
Business Management System
Bn
Billion 
boe
Barrels of oil equivalent
BHCPP
Bach Ho Central Processing 
Platform
boepd
Barrels of oil equivalent per day
bopd
Barrels of oil per day
bwpd
Barrels of water per day

C  
CASH or cash
Cash, cash equivalent and liquid 
investments
CAPEX or capex
Capital expenditure
CDP 
Formerly the  
Carbon Disclosure Project 
CEO
Chief Executive Officer
CFO
Chief Financial Officer
CNV
Ca Ngu Vang field located  
in Block 9-2
CO2e
Carbon Dioxide Equivalent
Contingent Resources
Those quantities of petroleum to be 
potentially recoverable from known 
accumulations by application of 
development projects but which 
are not currently considered to be 
commercially recoverable due to 
one or more contingencies
CR
Corporate Responsibility

D  
DD&A
Depreciation, depletion and 
amortisation

S  
Shares
Ordinary Shares
STOIIP
Stock Tank Oil Initially In Place
TOR
Terms of Reference
TCFD
Task-Force for Climate-related 
Financial Disclosures

T  
TGT
Te Giac Trang field located  
in Block 16-1
TSR
Total shareholder return
TIA
Tie-in Agreement

U  
UK
United Kingdom
US
United States of America

W  
WHP
Wellhead Platform

Y  
YTD
Year-to-date

$
United States Dollar
£
UK Pound Sterling
1C
Low estimate scenario of 
Contingent Resources
1H
First half
1P
Equivalent to Proved Reserves; 
denotes low estimate scenario of 
Reserves
2C
Best estimate scenario of 
Contingent Resources
2C Contingent Resources
Best estimate scenario of 
Contingent Resources
2P Reserves
Equivalent to the sum of Proved 
plus Probable Reserves; denotes 
best estimate scenario of Reserves. 
Also referred to as 2P Commercial 
Reserves

E  
E&P
Exploration & Production
EBITDAX
Earnings before Interest, Tax, 
Depreciation, Amortisation and 
Exploration Expenses
EBT
Employee benefit trust
E&E
Exploration and Evaluation
EGP
Egyptian Pound
EGPC
Egyptian General Petroleum 
Corporation
EU
European Union

F  
FFDP
Full Field Development Plan 
FPSO
Floating, Production, Storage  
and Offloading Vessel
FY
Full year

G  
G&A
General and administration
GHG
Greenhouse gas

H  
HLHVJOC
Hoang Long and Hoan Vu Joint 
Operating Companies 
HLJOC
Hoang Long Joint Operating 
Company
HSES
Health, Safety, Environmental and 
Security
HVJOC
Hoan Vu Joint Operating Company

I

IAS
International Accounting Standards
IFRS
International Financial Reporting 
Standards
IMF
International Monetary Fund
IOGP
The International Association of 
Oil & Gas Producers
IPIECA
The global oil and gas industry 
association for environmental and 
social issues

J  
JOC
Joint Operating Company
JV
Joint venture

K  
k
thousands
kbopd
Thousand barrels of oil per day
Km
Kilometre
km2
Square kilometre

L  
LTI
Lost Time Injury
LTIF
Lost Time Injury Frequency
LTIP
Long Term Incentive Plan

M  
m
million
M&A
Mergers and Acquisitions
MENA
Middle East and North Africa region
Merlon
Merlon El Fayum Company 
subsequently name changed to 
Pharos El Fayum
mmbbl
Million barrels
mmboe
Million barrels of oil equivalent

O  
OOIP
Original Oil in Place
OPECO Vietnam
OPECO Vietnam Limited
Opex
Operational expenditure

P  
Petrosilah
An Egyptian joint stock company 
held 50/50 between the Pharos 
Group and the Egyptian General 
Petroleum Corporation
PSC
Production sharing contract or 
production sharing agreement
Petrovietnam
Vietnam Oil and Gas Group
PTTEP
PTT Exploration and Production 
Public Company Limited

R  
Reserves
Reserves are those quantities of 
petroleum anticipated to be 
commercially recoverable by 
application of development projects 
to known accumulations from a 
given date forward under defined 
conditions. Reserves must further 
satisfy four criteria: they must be 
discovered, recoverable, 
commercial and remaining based on 
the development projects applied
RBL
Reserve Based Lending facility 
RISC
RISC Advisory Pty Ltd 

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019STRATEGIC REPORTGOVERNANCE REPORTFINANCIAL STATEMENTSADDITIONAL INFORMATIONCOMPANY INFORMATION

Registered office:
Pharos Energy
48 Dover Street 
London, W1S 4FF 
United Kingdom 
Registered in England 
T +44 (0)20 7747 2000 
F +44 (0)20 7747 2001 
Company No. 3300821 
www.pharos.energy

Company Secretary
Tony Hunter

Financial Calendar
Group results for the year to 
31 December are announced 
in March. The Annual General 
Meeting is held during the  
second quarter. Interim Results  
to 30 June are announced  
in August.

Advisers Auditor:
Deloitte LLP
London, United Kingdom

Bankers:
J.P. Morgan
125 London Wall 
London, EC2Y 5AY 
United Kingdom

HSBC UK Bank plc
60 Queen Victoria Street 
London 
EC4N 4TR 
United Kingdom

BNP Paribas – Singapore Branch 
10 Collyer Quay 
#33-01 Ocean Financial Center 
049315 
Singapore

Financial Adviser  
and Corporate Brokers:
Jefferies
100 Bishopsgate 
London, EC2N 4JL 
United Kingdom

J.P. Morgan Cazenove
25 Bank Street 
London, E14 5JP 
United Kingdom

Financial Adviser:
Evercore
15 Stanhope Gate 
London, W1K 1LN 
United Kingdom

Registrar:
Equiniti Limited
Aspect House 
Spencer Road 
Lancing, BN99 6DA 
United Kingdom

Solicitors:
Clifford Chance LLP
10 Upper Bank Street 
London, E14 5JJ 
United Kingdom

162

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Pharos Energy Annual Report and Accounts 2019Designed and produced 
by SampsonMay
www.sampsonmay.com

This report is printed on UPM Fine paper which 
is derived from sustainable sources. Both the 
manufacturing paper mill and printer are registered 
to the Environmental Management System ISO 
14001 and are Forest Stewardship Council® chain  
of custody certified.

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Pharos Energy
48 Dover Street
London, W1S 4FF
United Kingdom
Registered in England
T +44 (0)20 7747 2000
F +44 (0)20 7747 2001
Company No. 3300821

www.pharos.energy

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1.Pharos Energy 5922 AR Cover_20-04-06.indd   1

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