Began career as an investment banker at RBC Capital Markets. Joined Linn Energy in 2005 to help take it public. Currently oversees corporate finance as the second-longest-tenured, pre-IPO employee at the first and largest upstream MLP/LLC.
“To be part of something this big and to earn investor trust and confidence and the dedication of our employees through a number of cycles is a huge point of pride for me.” Graduated summa cum laude with a BBA in finance from Southern Methodist University.

Accomplishments: Played a key role in several groundbreaking transactions: Linn Energy LLC IPO, the first E&P MLP/LLC; LinnCo LLC IPO; and Berry Petroleum Co. acquisition, the first acquisition of a public C-corp by an MLP/LLC. “They were important transactions for us and the industry overall. Others have followed in our footsteps and I’m happy to see them doing well.”

On what led to the revolutionary transactions: The desire to grow the company, and finding new ways to do that. “It was the next big thing. It was proof of concept and then using it to create value for our investors.” Less focus on wildcatting and more on delivering predictable growth should lead the industry to more E&P MLPs. “The market values consistent results, especially in our sector.”

Goals: Continue to feel challenged and grow in career. “The ability to grow and finance a business—-that sort of strategic viewpoint and knowledge base—-transcends any one sector of the economy. I feel like there are a lot of opportunities out there.”
Become more involved with Goodwill Industries of Houston. “I got to where I am today by working, coming in every day with new ideas and trying to add value where I can. I believe that people are very much defined by their work. The fact that Goodwill supports people in need by providing opportunities to create a new self-identity through a job is highly inspirational.”