Edward S. Jacob III has been elected chairman of the International Association of Drilling Contractors (IADC) by its board of directors, according to a news release.

In addition, in recognition of his career and significant industry contributions, Jacob was recognized at the general meeting with the 2014 Contractor of the Year Award. The award recognizes an individual drilling contractor’s outstanding lifetime achievements in technical innovation, safety and economic efficiency within the drilling industry, the release said.

Jacob began his career at Helmerich & Payne International Drilling Co., where he held positions of increasing responsibility for 13 years. He currently serves as a director of Independence Contract Drilling (ICD) and has served as its president and COO since February, 2013. As a senior member of the company’s management team, Jacob oversees both ICD’s day-to-day operations and strategy, the release said.