Nova Compression names Zach Gray interim CEO amid leadership changes

Nova Compression’s operating horsepower. (Image: Nova Compression)

Nova Compression LLC has appointed Chief Financial Officer Zach Gray as interim chief executive officer following the departure of Jonathan Mitchell, who had led the Oklahoma City-based contract compression company since January 2020.

The company also named compression industry veteran Mike Wright senior vice president of business development and Jay McKenna interim president.

Gray, who joined Nova as CFO in May, brings more than two decades of experience in energy infrastructure, finance, operations and corporate development. He previously served as a U.S. Army officer in the 25th Infantry Division.

Mitchell oversaw a period of substantial growth at Nova, including acquisitions and expansion into producing regions in Oklahoma and Texas.

“Jonathan helped lead Nova through a period of significant growth, including major acquisitions and expansion into highly productive basins,” said Hale Hoak, a Nova board member.

Wright, a petroleum engineer, has more than 20 years of experience developing artificial lift and compression businesses. In his new position, he will oversee business development efforts with existing and prospective customers.

McKenna is a managing director at OIC, LP, one of Nova’s shareholders. He will work with Gray and the company’s management team on operational performance and business strategy.

Fleet expands tenfold

The leadership changes follow a period of rapid expansion for Nova, whose contract compression fleet has grown from approximately 40,000 hp at the beginning of 2021 to about 400,000 hp.

The company’s most recent expansion came in July 2026 with the addition of Energy Gas Compression’s South Texas fleet.

Nova operates conventional natural gas compression equipment, electric compression units and high-pressure gas lift systems. Its services include contract compression, maintenance, service and repair for producers in Oklahoma and Texas, including the Eagle Ford and Delaware basins.

Gray said Nova’s immediate priorities will include customer service, operational performance, financial management and disciplined capital allocation.

“We have a strong team, a diverse fleet and supportive financial partners,” Gray said. “Our immediate priorities are clear: exceptional customer service, operational and financial excellence, and disciplined capital allocation.”

Nova said the management changes are intended to support the company’s next phase of development as it works to strengthen operations and expand customer relationships.