The University of Tulsa is excited to announce that John Chandler, former senior vice president and CFO of the Williams Companies, is joining the Collins College of Business as an executive in residence.
Before Williams, Chandler (BSBA ’92) served as CFO of Magellan Midstream Partners LP, beginning that role in 2002 in advance of Magellan’s spinoff from Williams in 2003. During Chandler’s tenure at Williams, he strengthened its balance sheet, improved many key credit rating metrics and achieved significant deleveraging, driving consistent value to Williams’ shareholders.
“John’s deep knowledge and C-suite experience in the energy industry will add best-in-class real-world student learning and collaboration with other disciplines across the university,” said TU President Brad R. Carson.
Chandler serves on the board of directors for Matrix Services Co. and has served on the boards of several community organizations including the Wagoner Education Foundation, Wagoner Community Outreach and the Tulsa Area United Way.
To support the university’s and the college’s strategic plans, Collins College of Business is reinventing its energy curriculum with a data analytics mindset and by applying sustainability across all segments of the energy industry. With the vital role energy plays in our region’s economy, Collins will integrate energy through every discipline in the college.
“John will make an important impact on students at the Collins College of Business. He will be available to spend time one-on-one with students, assist in identifying applied learning projects, identify others in the business community who can provide specialized areas of expertise and collaborate to set the energy strategy for the college,” said Dean Kathy Taylor. Chandler’s connection also will assist in identifying internships and potential job opportunities for students in the energy industry.
As executive in residence, Chandler will share his broad corporate experience with TU students and faculty, helping to link theory to practice. With a distinguished history of success, he has held leadership roles with companies involved in significant transactions and growth. He will provide the inside scoop on how to lead organizations and corporate strategy; offer insight into how companies, advisers and investors interact and add value; and point out future trends in the energy industry.
Chandler and his wife, Barbie (BSN ’92), have made their home in Wagoner where they own and operate an 850-acre cattle ranch. All four of their children have attended TU. One of their daughters, Halli Tipton, is a clinical assistant professor of nursing at the university.
As Collins College of Business updates and reimagines energy education at the undergraduate and graduate level, Chandler will work with long-time energy faculty and industry professionals Tom Seng and Jennifer Bennett as well as other faculty to identify areas that should be included for the relaunch of energy studies in fall 2023. Chandler’s knowledge, alongside the exceptional faculty across the college, will ensure TU students are prepared for the world of energy today and tomorrow.