Rowan Companies plc ("Rowan" or the "Company") (NYSE: RDC) announces that J. Kevin Bartol, Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer, has decided to leave the Company to pursue other opportunities. Mr. Bartol will continue to serve until a successor is chosen and a smooth transition is completed. The Company is conducting a search and intends to name Mr. Bartol's successor in short order.

"We greatly appreciate Kevin's dedication and many contributions to Rowan's success over the past seven years," said Thomas Burke, Rowan's President and Chief Executive Officer. "Kevin has been instrumental in shaping the Company's asset and capital markets strategy, from spearheading the sale of the Manufacturing and Land Drilling divisions and acquiring Skeie Drilling to positioning the Company for the future with our solid balance sheet, strong financial condition and investment grade ratings. We wish him well in his future endeavors."

The Company also announced today that Melanie M. Trent has been promoted to Executive Vice President, General Counsel and Chief Administrative Officer and will assume responsibility for the Legal function, as well as retain responsibility for the Human Resources, Information Technology and Communications departments. Ms. Trent succeeds John L. Buvens, Jr. who is retiring from Rowan after more than 30 years with the Company.

"John has been an important contributor to Rowan's evolution over the past thirty years and we will miss his expertise and judgment. We wish him all the best in retirement," Mr. Burke stated.

Ms. Trent joined the Company in 2005, served as Senior Vice President, Chief Administrative Officer and Company Secretary since 2011, and served as Vice President & Corporate Secretary prior to that time.