With more than 15 years of species conservation and biodiversity experience, Jesse has cultivated collaborative relationships with research institutions, state and federal agencies, and volunteer organizations to promote stewardship, research, and responsible energy development in the Permian Basin. He values the opportunity to leave a positive and lasting impact on the properties he stewards for the benefit of wildlife species and the habitats on which they depend.

ConocoPhillips, one of the world’s leading exploration and production companies based on production and reserves, has supported the Playa Lakes Joint Venture since 1990. As the ConocoPhillips Permian Basin Director of Ecology and Sustainable Development, Jesse oversees stewardship activities and management of natural resources on over 195,000 acres in the Permian Basin of Texas and New Mexico. He also serves as a liaison to state and federal agencies addressing threatened and endangered species concerns and facilitating implementation of corporate sustainable development and biodiversity initiatives.

Prior to joining ConocoPhillips, Jesse worked at Concho Resources Inc. in various capacities including regulatory department lead, drill scheduling coordinator, and surface landman and seven years working for the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service. He earned his bachelor’s degree in wildlife and fisheries sciences from Texas A&M University and master’s degree in range and wildlife management from Sul Ross State University.

Jesse gained his appreciation for all things outdoors from his dad at an early age, and that continues today. He enjoys spending time with his wife and three daughters, and spending time outdoors following his pointers wherever upland birds are found.