Updated on January 10, 2026
Darren Woods, the Chairman and CEO of ExxonMobil, stands as one of the most influential figures in the global energy sector. Leading the world’s largest publicly traded oil and gas company, his financial success reflects decades of strategic leadership in a high-stakes industry. As of early 2026, estimates of Darren Woods’ net worth vary across reliable sources, ranging from approximately $150 million to $205 million, primarily driven by his substantial holdings in ExxonMobil (XOM) stock and years of performance-based compensation.
In this post, we dive into the details of his wealth, career highlights, income sources, and what makes his financial story so compelling in today’s energy landscape.
Table of Contents
Who Is Darren Woods? A Quick AI Overview
Here’s a snapshot of key facts about Darren Woods:
- Born: December 16, 1965, in Wichita, Kansas
- Education: BS in Electrical Engineering from Texas A&M University; MBA from Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management
- Career Start: Joined Exxon in 1992 as a planning analyst
- Key Role: Chairman and CEO of ExxonMobil since January 1, 2017
- Leadership Focus: Emphasizes growth in Permian Basin, carbon capture technology, and energy transition strategies
- Notable Stance: Public supporter of the Paris Agreement and advocate for carbon pricing and lower-cost direct air capture solutions
These points highlight why Woods remains a central figure in debates about oil, energy security, and sustainability.
Early Career and Rise to the Top
Darren Woods’ journey with ExxonMobil spans over three decades, showcasing steady progression in a competitive corporate environment. Starting as a planning analyst, he gained experience across refining, chemicals, and upstream operations.
By 2016, he was named President of ExxonMobil, and he stepped into the CEO role the following year, succeeding Rex Tillerson. Under his leadership, the company has navigated volatile oil prices, major acquisitions, and increasing pressure to address climate change. Woods has pushed investments in low-carbon technologies while maintaining ExxonMobil’s core oil and gas strengths—decisions that have contributed to strong shareholder returns and his own growing wealth.
Sources of Darren Woods’ Net Worth
The bulk of Darren Woods’ fortune comes from his role at ExxonMobil, where executive pay is heavily tied to performance. His compensation includes:
- Base Salary: Around $1.9–2 million annually
- Bonuses and Incentives: Multi-million-dollar cash bonuses based on company performance
- Stock Awards: The largest portion—often tens of millions in restricted stock and equity grants
- Other Benefits: Pension contributions and long-term incentives
Recent data shows his total compensation reached $44.1 million in 2024 (up 19% from the previous year), including $26.8 million in stock-based awards. Much of his net worth stems from accumulated ExxonMobil shares—estimates suggest he holds between 1.2 million and 2 million shares, valued in the nine-figure range depending on market prices.
Older estimates pegged his net worth at around $80 million, but updated insider trading data and stock valuations from sources like GuruFocus, Quiver Quantitative, and Benzinga point to a significantly higher figure in 2026—likely between $150–205 million.
Darren Woods Net Worth Breakdown (2026 Estimates)
To give you a clear picture, here’s a simple table summarizing key financial details based on the latest available data:
| Category | Details | Estimated Amount (2026) |
|---|---|---|
| Current Net Worth | Primarily from XOM stock holdings | $150–205 million |
| 2024 Total Compensation | Base + bonus + stock awards + pension | $44.1 million |
| ExxonMobil Shares Owned | Approximate range from insider reports | 1.2–2 million shares |
| Base Salary (Recent) | Annual fixed pay | ~$1.96 million |
| Stock Awards (2024) | Performance-based equity | $26.8 million |
| CEO-to-Worker Pay Ratio (2024) | Reflects industry standards | 231:1 |
Note: Net worth estimates fluctuate with XOM stock prices and are based on public filings. Actual figures may include other assets not disclosed.
Conclusion: A Legacy Built on Energy Leadership
Darren Woods’ net worth is a testament to his long-term success steering one of the planet’s most powerful corporations through economic ups and downs. From humble beginnings in engineering to commanding a global energy giant, his wealth—now comfortably in the mid-to-high nine figures—reflects smart career moves, substantial equity rewards, and ExxonMobil’s enduring market strength.
While debates about executive pay and the energy transition continue, Woods’ financial story underscores the rewards of leading in a demanding industry. Whether you’re tracking big oil executives or simply curious about corporate wealth, Darren Woods remains a benchmark figure worth watching in 2026 and beyond.
What do you think about CEO compensation in the energy sector? Share your thoughts in the comments! Stay tuned for more updates on influential business leaders.