Jessica W. Bateman is a seasoned legal executive with over two decades of experience in corporate law, regulatory compliance, and governance. She currently serves as Senior Vice President, General Counsel, and Corporate Secretary at Atmos Energy Corporation, a leading natural gas distribution company based in Dallas, Texas. Bateman joined Atmos Energy in 2015, bringing with her a wealth of expertise from previous roles in both private practice and in-house counsel positions. Prior to Atmos, she held key legal positions at prominent energy firms, where she specialized in mergers and acquisitions, environmental regulations, and corporate litigation. A graduate of the University of Texas School of Law, Bateman earned her Juris Doctor with honors and began her career at a top-tier law firm in Houston, honing her skills in complex transactional work and advising on energy sector challenges. Throughout her career, Bateman has been recognized for her strategic leadership and contributions to the industry. She played a pivotal role in navigating Atmos Energy through significant regulatory changes, including compliance with federal energy policies and environmental standards, which helped the company maintain its position as a reliable utility provider serving millions of customers across multiple states. Her achievements include leading successful acquisitions that expanded Atmos's footprint, as well as implementing robust corporate governance frameworks that enhanced transparency and risk management. Bateman is also an active member of professional organizations such as the American Bar Association and the Society for Corporate Governance, where she has spoken on topics like ethical leadership in the energy sector and the evolving role of general counsel in public companies. In her current role at Atmos Energy, Bateman oversees all legal affairs, including litigation, contracts, and regulatory compliance, while also serving as the primary advisor to the board of directors on governance matters. She has been instrumental in fostering a culture of integrity and accountability within the organization, contributing to Atmos's strong reputation for ethical practices and community engagement. Under her guidance, the company has successfully managed high-stakes legal challenges and pursued initiatives aligned with sustainability goals, positioning Atmos Energy for continued growth in a dynamic energy landscape.