Jennifer Early
Jennifer Early is a seasoned business development executive with nearly two decades of experience in the oil and gas industry, currently serving as Executive Vice President of Business Relations and Corporate Development at Direct Midstream. In this role, she plays a pivotal part in driving growth by building strategic partnerships and fostering relationships across the communities where the company operates, particularly in the Permian Basin. Alongside her husband, she recently assumed full ownership of their saltwater disposal company, marking a significant milestone in her career and positioning the business for continued expansion and innovation. Jennifer’s professional philosophy centers on integrity, transparency, and the power of authentic relationship-building. She is deeply committed to “doing the right thing” and believes that sustainable success comes from mutually beneficial partnerships and strong community ties. Much of her success has been driven by word-of-mouth and a reputation for trustworthiness, allowing her to cultivate an extensive network within the industry. Her approach blends business acumen with a people-first mindset, ensuring that both clients and partners feel valued and supported. Her career journey reflects a steady rise through hands-on experience and determination. Beginning in entry-level financial and accounting roles, Jennifer learned the industry from the ground up, supported by early exposure through her family’s involvement in oil and gas. Over time, she advanced through roles in accounting management and finance before stepping into executive leadership. She holds a bachelor’s degree in business management and an MBA with a focus on financials and investing from the University of North Texas. In addition to her professional work, Jennifer is actively involved in community service, including volunteering with organizations like Community Development for youth and supporting local youth initiatives.
• Lean Six Sigma Green Belt
• University of North Texas- M.B.A.
• Texas Tech University
• Wayland Baptist University- B.S.
What do you attribute your success to?
My success is rooted in where I come from - raised by hardworking, blue-collar people who built their lives in the oilfield industry. They taught me grit, discipline, and what it means to show up every day. In my 30's, a mentor told me something that changed everything: the only thing holding me back was fear of the unknown, and that I was just as capable as anyone Id been working for. That stuck with me and it still drives how I approach every opportunity.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice that I have received is : Stand Tall in your decisions, be transparent in your work, and be okay with being wrong.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
To the young women coming into this industry my advice is to go get your hands dirty and don't be scared to mess up. Mistakes are part of it. Own them, learn from them, and keep moving forward with confidence. Stand tall in your decisions and listen more than you talk because that is where the real knowledge is.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
For me, as a female in my field, the biggest challenge is that it's very hard to break through to get to the point where people respect you enough to listen. The oil field in general, it has gotten better in these last few years, but it is still a challenge. However, the opportunities are incredible once you get to that point. You're unstoppable. Everybody wants to be in your corner. Everybody wants to hear what you have to say. You just have to be strong enough to get through the hard parts to get to the point where people want to hear what you want to say, because there are a lot of people now that want to hear it. When you're a woman in the industry and you can get the respect, then you have so many opportunities to help people, because people will listen to you. It's very hard to move up into, so they respect that.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that guide me both professionally and personally are rooted in transparency, integrity, and intentional decision-making. I believe in doing the right thing, even when it's not the easiest path, and approaching every responsibility with a servant's heart. I strive to be confident and accountable in my decisions, knowing that even the smallest actions can have a meaningful impact on someone else's life.