Coterra

CEO Tom Jorden (ex‑Cimarex) and CFO Shannon Young (joined 2023) run a conservative program focused on capital efficiency and returns. Execution in 2024 beat production guidance at low‑end capex, and 2025–2027 guidance emphasizes sub‑50 to 55 percent reinvestment.

Activist pressure and media reports of a potential Devon merger introduce governance and strategic questions, but also reflect credible interest in unlocking Permian scale. Track record is solid, aligned with shareholder returns, yet not at the exceptional founder‑operator level we award top marks for.