Perth-based Alto Energy International Ltd has appointed United States-based oil industry executive James Trimble (pictured) as managing director, following the resignation of Greg Channon. The appointment signals a new focus for Alto Energy on further capitalising on new opportunities in the US, particularly in traditional onshore oil and gas prospects. Mr Trimble is a registered professional engineer with over 30 years US and international oil and gas experience specialising in engineering, operations, exploration, management, acquisitions, divestitures and corporate restructuring. As part of the company’s new approach, Alto will acquire a 12.5 per cent interest in leases held by a private US company, Foothills Energy LLC, in which Mr Trimble has been involved.