Previously president and chief executive for Interwest Mining Company, Baker joined Consol on November 1, 1999.

"Dan managed coal operations through two difficult and challenging periods during his career with CONSOL Energy," said J Brett Harvey, president and chief executive. "He spent countless hours battling difficult geology and poor coal markets. I wish him well in his new endeavors."

Harvey also announced that Consol is in the final stages of selecting a chief operating officer for its coal segment.

"Both coal operations and coal sales will report to the COO," Harvey explained. "Our objective is to maximise market flexibility by having the closest possible coordination between sales and production of coal."

During the transition, coal operations will report directly to Harvey.

"We have a capable group of operations-level managers who will ensure that the mines continue to perform as expected during this transition," Harvey said.