2Q24 Haynesville Business Unit Snapshot

Employee Spotlight

Get to Know Matt Sheppard, Director of Government Affairs

For over 15 years, Matt Sheppard has been a leading voice of advocacy for Chesapeake and the industry-at-large. As Chesapeake’s Director of Government Affairs, Matt plays a pivotal role in shaping and advocating for sound energy policy at both the state and federal levels. Through years of building relationships with government officials, regulatory agencies, trade associations and community groups, he has become a trusted advisor in the legislative and regulatory process. His work includes helping policymakers understand what our industry does and how we’re working to deliver a sustainable energy future.

In addition to policymaking, Matt also informs Chesapeake’s Marcellus and Haynesville team members about state and federal regulatory developments that could impact our operations. It’s his goal that no one at Chesapeake is surprised by a government action. 

He adds, “I help ensure our teams across our footprint have the information they need to make informed decisions regarding future development and strategic objectives. My primary goal is to keep Chesapeake ahead of the curve when it comes to policy developments, positioning the company to succeed.”

As a Pennsylvania local, Matt is closely looped into state policy matters in both Pennsylvania and Louisiana, serving on the boards of both the Marcellus Shale Coalition and LMOGA, in addition to his federal work. According to Matt, living in Pennsylvania plays an important role in his ability to advocate for local issues.

“It’s nice to live and work in Pennsylvania because natural gas plays such a significant role in the state’s economy and job market,” said Matt. “When I’m advocating for the issues that matter to our company, I’m also fighting for the jobs and interests of people in my community. We bring this same community-minded approach to our work in Louisiana as well.”

Matt has been married to his wife Penny for almost 26 years and together they’ve raised four kids. With two in college and two in high school, Matt is spending most of his ‘free’ time on the sidelines watching his youngest son and daughter play baseball and field hockey (respectively).

His next challenge includes supporting the Chesapeake-Southwestern integration. The merger not only enhances our operational capabilities, but also significantly strengthens our influence in the energy sector. Matt notes, “I’m excited about the expanded opportunities the merger creates for us to engage with policymakers and industry group, ensuring that natural gas continues to be recognized as a critical component of the energy transition. Our combined resources and expertise will enable us to drive innovation, advocate for sustainable energy policies, and play a pivotal role in shaping the future of energy.”