Melissa Hooper
- 18+ Years in Energy Sector Talent & Business Operations
- Based in Midland, Texas — Heart of the Permian Basin
- Member, Sanford Rose Associates® Executive Search Network
- Specialization: Retained Executive Search, Energy Sector
Background
Melissa Hooper founded Energy People Group to bring a different kind of executive search to the energy sector — one grounded in genuine industry knowledge rather than generalist recruiting process. With 18+ years working at the intersection of energy sector business operations and talent strategy, most of it in the Permian Basin, she understands the technical nuances, organizational dynamics, and competitive talent landscape that define this industry.
Her background spans recruiting, compensation strategy, and workforce analytics across energy companies of varying scale — from growth-stage operators to established mid-size organizations. That operational perspective shapes how she approaches every search: not just matching a resume to a job description, but understanding why a specific person, with a specific background and cultural fit, matters to where a client organization is headed.
“Recruiting starts with understanding the business — not just the job description.”
As a member of the Sanford Rose Associates® network, Melissa combines the accountability and local depth of a boutique practice with the methodology, resources, and national reach of one of North America’s most established executive search networks. Every engagement is retained, rigorous, and focused on long-term fit.
How Melissa Works
Sector-First Understanding
Every search begins with a deep dive into your business — your competitive position, organizational structure, and what success actually looks like for the role.
Retained Search Discipline
Retained engagements mean full commitment, confidentiality, and a structured process — not a race to submit the most resumes fastest.
Candidate Relationships Built Over Years
Top talent in the energy sector is rarely actively looking. Melissa’s network is built on years of credible, confidential relationships — not cold outreach.
In Her Own Words
Melissa is a lifelong Midlander and a proud member of the Junior League of Women and The Petroleum Club Women’s Association. When she’s not working through a search or strategizing with a client, you’ll find her in the garden, at book club, or spending time with her three dogs — Pumpkin, Mudgie, and Dolly.