Ellen Conley

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Ellen Conley’s education didn’t end when she graduated law school. “Haynes Boone is unique in that many of the attorneys I have been working with over the past (almost) 10 years have also spent their entire careers at the firm. My success is largely the result of the training I received from these ‘lifers,’ and I am fortunate to have joined the ranks to teach the next wave of oil and gas attorneys.” Now a partner at Haynes Boone, she has served as an adjunct professor at South Texas College of Law in Houston teaching the course “Transactional Skills – Oil & Gas.”

“As the saying goes,” she says, “you never really know something until you teach it to someone else.”

What qualities do you think are necessary to be a good leader in the oil and gas industry? 
An understanding and appreciation for the segments of the oil and gas industry, from real property ownership to finished products. A good leader can also anticipate, to some extent, and adapt to changes in the industrial landscape, while predicting what those changes could mean for the industry and its practitioners.

How have you exercised leadership to help shape your firm?
I try to lead by example—setting expectations by publishing articles, participating in speaking engagements and serving on committees.

What or whom do you credit for helping you develop leadership abilities during your career?
My parents, who are both attorneys in Houston, and my colleagues at Haynes Boone. The firm has a dynamic, entrepreneurial atmosphere, with an emphasis on strong work ethic, open communication and ongoing professional development. We have a client-first philosophy, defining success as providing exceptional value to our clients and making real, tangible and often remarkable contributions to their businesses.

Who are your mentors? What is the most valuable advice they have given you?
My mentors are the other partners in the Energy Practice Group at the firm, including Buddy Clark, a leader in the industry, whose book “Oil Capital” covers, in part, the history of oil and gas finance. They lead by example—working as a team rather than in silos—and take time to teach what they know to those who want to learn.

Which transformations do you think the industry must undertake for it to thrive in the future?
Technology and strategy; helping change the narrative from energy transition to energy expansion.

What do you think young industry members have to offer that is unique to them?
More time for new, innovative projects, particularly those that require significant initial investment and understanding. Data centers are becoming increasingly energy-intensive, particularly with the rise of AI, driving significant growth in energy demand. I hope young industry members take the lead in shaping how we make changes to account for such increased energy demand.

What keeps you motivated and passionate about working in the oil and gas industry?
The people, turned friends. I have enjoyed getting to know those in the industry by attending events, such as those hosted by the Houston Energy Finance Group, Houston Producer’s Forum, Independent Petroleum Association of America or Haynes Boone, and the faces have remained particularly consistent over the years. Spending time with people who are equally as motivated and passionate about the industry helps us work together toward common goals.

 Get to know the rest of the Forty Under 40 class of 2025.