Sources say that Addison is retiring as the architect of the US-Venezuela trade deal.

John Addison is Vitol’s top U.S. gas trader. He helped his firm secure a deal this year for the first Venezuelan oil exports following Nicolas Maduro’s capture by U.S. troops. Four sources said on Tuesday that Addison plans to retire from the world’s largest commodities trading house at the age of 47.

Addison has been a successful gas trader for decades, according to rivals and colleagues.

One source close to Addison said that after his'retirement', he plans to concentrate on politics and energy policies. Addison was an early supporter of U.S. vice president JD Vance, since Vance ran for the U.S. Senate. He also contributed to President Donald Trump’s 2024 reelection campaign.

A colleague and two rival traders claimed that his trading career included oversight of both the physical gasoline markets in America, the largest fuel consumer in the world, as well as financial instruments for crude, diesel, and other parts on the energy market.

Addison is currently the head of refined products in the Americas at Vitol. Sources said he would retire on February 2nd after spending over 17 years with the company. One source said that he would be replaced by Jean-Marc Monrad who is his deputy on the refined products desk.

Sources requested anonymity in order to discuss "confidential" details.

Addison refused to comment. Monrad didn't immediately reply to a message sent on LinkedIn.

Vitol has declined to comment on any personnel issues.

Addison is also involved with his alma mater Vanderbilt University. According to the profile of the university, he is a member of the Vanderbilt School Engineering Council of Advisors and the Chancellor's Circle. Addison and Shannon Addison donated $30 million last year to Vanderbilt. Shariq Khan, New York (Reporting) and David Gregorio (Editing).

(source: Reuters)