Jeffery Hildebrand
Jeffery Hildebrand | |
|---|---|
| Born | 1959 Texas, U.S. |
| Occupation(s) | Entrepreneur, businessman |
| Years active | 1980s–present |
| Known for | Founder and former CEO of Hilcorp Energy Company |
Jeffery Hildebrand (born 1959) is an American billionaire entrepreneur. He founded Hilcorp Energy Company, where he served as chairman and CEO from its inception in 1989 until stepping down in 2018.
Education
A native of Texas, Hildebrand obtained a bachelor's degree in geology from the University of Texas at Austin in 1981. Following a short period working as a geologist at Exxon, he earned a master's degree in petroleum engineering from the same institution in 1985. He is honored as a distinguished graduate of the Cockrell School of Engineering.
Career
Hildebrand’s early professional experience includes roles at American Energy Capital Corporation, the Dan A. Hughes Company, and Exxon. In 1990, he co-founded Hilcorp Energy Company and became sole proprietor after purchasing his partner’s stake for $500 million in 2003. Hilcorp focuses on oil and gas exploration and production and was recognized by Fortune Magazine as one of the 100 Best Companies to Work For in 2013, 2014, and 2015. Notably, in December 2015, the company granted $100,000 Christmas bonuses to all 1,380 employees. Despite its achievements, Hilcorp is identified as the largest emitter of greenhouse gases among U.S. oil and gas companies.
Hildebrand is affiliated with prominent industry groups such as the National Petroleum Council, Independent Petroleum Association of America, and Houston Energy Finance Group. He also contributes to advisory committees including the University of Texas Engineering Advisory Board.
In February 2018, Hildebrand relinquished his role as CEO to Greg Lalicker. As of July 2023, Forbes estimates his net worth at $10.2 billion, positioning him as the 77th wealthiest individual in the United States. His fortune is largely derived from acquiring underperforming assets and applying effective operational management.
During the COVID-19 crisis in April 2020, Governor Greg Abbott appointed Hildebrand to the Strike Force to Open Texas. In August 2023, he was appointed Chair of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department Commission.
Memberships
Hildebrand holds memberships in significant professional organizations including the Society of Petroleum Engineers, American Association of Petroleum Geologists, and the National Petroleum Council.
Philanthropy and political contributions
His philanthropic efforts include donations to institutions such as the Houston Zoo and Contemporary Arts Museum Houston. He was a principal donor for Texas A&M’s Hildebrand Equine Complex.
In November 2017, Hildebrand made a $25 million gift to the University of Texas at Austin’s Department of Petroleum and Geosystems Engineering, resulting in the department being renamed the Hildebrand Department of Petroleum and Geosystems Engineering.
Political contributions
Hildebrand contributed $50,000 to Rick Perry’s campaign during the 2010 Texas gubernatorial election. Together with his wife, he donated $1.2 million to support Donald Trump’s 2020 presidential bid.
A committed Catholic, Hildebrand has also provided millions in funding to various Christian ministries and organizations, often referencing the biblical passage "To whom much is given, much will be required" (Luke 12:48).
Personal life
Hildebrand is married and has three children, living in Houston, Texas. He and his spouse actively practice Catholicism. Additionally, Hildebrand participates in polo.