New York-based private equity firm Riverstone Holdings LLC has named John Browne managing director and managing partner of Riverstone Europe. He was chief executive of BP Plc, London, (NYSE: BP). Riverstone co-founders David M. Leuschen and Pierre F. Lapeyre Jr. report, "(Browne) is without question one of the most visionary, experienced and talented executives in the energy industry with an unparalleled global understanding. We are looking forward to Lord Browne helping us expand our existing energy practice and identifying new opportunities in the alternative and renewable energy markets." Browne says, "Since its founding in 2000, Riverstone has emerged as one of the leading and certainly one of the most respected private equity firms in the energy industry. This is an opportunity for me to return to the energy industry full-time, which will enable me to best apply my life-long skills and experience."