The chief executive of oilfield services firm Archer has stood down.

John Lechner has resigned from the company with immediate effect, with chairman Kjell-Erik Ostdahl taking on the role of executive chairman in the interim.

Archer, which operates globally, has a base in Blackburn near Aberdeen.

The company did not give a reason for Mr Lechner stepping down, but said he will remain as a senior advisor until a replacement is found.

Kjell-Erik Ostdahl said:  “On behalf of the Board of Directors, I would like to thank John for his leadership through a challenging period for the global oilfield service industry.

“I appreciate John’s contribution to Archer and wish him all the best in the future.”

Mr Lechner has been CEO since 2016, and worked within Archer for nearly seven years.

Previously he held roles with OilServ, Schlumberger and Parker Drilling Company.