Fifth-generation Texan who co-founded ZaZa Energy. Company now holds a premier position in the emerging Eaglebine/Eagle Ford East play. Formed a JV with Hess Corp. in the early days of the Eagle Ford to acquire and develop more than 100,000 acres in the play. Gained an additional 100,000 acres in the Eaglebine a year later. Executed a JV with Range Resources in the Eaglebine/Eagle Ford East play. Executed a second JV with a world-class operator (according to public filings, EOG) in the same play."Being on the front end of both the Eagle Ford and now the Eaglebine has proven to be substantive. We were first movers in both plays."

Vanderbilt graduate in economics and South Texas College of Law grad who worked as production analyst for L.J. Melody & Co. and in the field for OGM Land Co., where he delivered title work and negotiated oil and gas leases. Serves as trustee of his family’s mineral trusts, which have had continuous production since the early 1940s.

Active in SPE, the Houston Producers’ Forum and the IPAA. Supports various local nonprofit organizations focused on health care, education and the arts.

Accomplishments: “Regarding accomplishments, I would rather focus on forward goals. There’s a lot to be done, and this is a dynamic time for the industry.”

Advice to young professionals: Ask thoughtful questions. “In this business, it is rare to be in a room with someone that you can’t learn something from.”

Goals: “Establish a legacy E&P company. Right now we are working to build a production base and exploit the Eagle Ford and Eaglebine alongside our JV partners. We are also working in East Texas to acquire new quality acreage and resource at reasonable prices and to execute appraisal drilling followed by larger scale development.

“Personally, I want to be the best father and husband I can be to my two young sons and my wife.”

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