OREANDA-NEWS. Williams Partners L.P. (NYSE: WPZ) today announced changes to the Board of Directors of its general partner, Williams Partners GP LLC. Williams (NYSE: WMB) owns approximately 64 percent of Williams Partners, including its general partner interest.

Laura A. Sugg has been appointed to the Board, effective Jan. 17, 2014. Sugg succeeds Thomas F. Karam, who has served as a director since May 2012. Karam resigned from the Board to pursue other business interests. Sugg, who previously served on the general partner's Board between 2011 and 2012, will serve as an independent director on the Audit Committee. Formerly a senior executive at ConocoPhillips, Sugg also will continue to serve on Williams' Board of Directors, which she joined in 2010.

"I am pleased to welcome Laura back to the Board of Williams Partners GP," said Alan Armstrong, chairman of the Board and chief executive officer of Williams Partners. "As a chemical engineer and a seasoned executive, Laura brings extensive industry, operational and technical experience to our Board. Her leadership experience in a major oil and gas company also extends into human resources, compensation and financial matters, underscoring the diverse perspectives she contributes. I would also like to thank Tom for his important contributions in helping us rapidly grow the partnership and wish him the best in his future endeavors."

Alan Armstrong, Donald R. Chappel, Rory Miller and James E. Scheel are Williams-employee directors on the general partner's Board.