“Curiosity fuels discovery, and experience empowers direction.”
Timothy Davis is a seasoned structural geologist with over three decades of experience navigating the complexities of both international and domestic oil and gas landscapes. His expertise spans conventional exploration and unconventional resource plays, making him a sought-after leader and advisor in the upstream energy sector. With a career that began in the early 1990s and flourished through roles in global corporations, Timothy combines technical excellence with a pragmatic approach to problem-solving in subsurface geoscience.
Timothy’s academic foundation is built on a Ph.D. in Structural Geology from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. This rigorous academic background set the tone for a career marked by continuous learning and high-level application of complex geological concepts. Complementing his doctoral work, he also holds an M.S. in Structural Geology from Bowling Green State University and a B.S. in Geology from DePauw University, with honors. His education emphasized field research, analytical thinking, and leadership—all of which continue to define his career.
He began his professional journey at the North Carolina Geological Survey, where he developed essential geological mapping and analytical skills that formed the bedrock of his future roles. His transition into the corporate energy sector started with ExxonMobil, where he held the title of Research Specialist in Structural Geology. During his six years at ExxonMobil, Timothy was instrumental in structural modeling initiatives and collaborative research that informed global exploration strategy.
At Occidental Oil and Gas Corporation, Timothy spent nearly eight years as a Senior Geological Advisor. There, he led multidisciplinary teams focused on geomechanics and fracture modeling, enabling more effective resource development in both onshore and offshore environments. His leadership style, grounded in mentorship and collaborative engagement, earned him recognition across departments for his ability to integrate structural understanding into reservoir management and production strategies.
His next move brought him to Apache Corporation, where he served as a Senior Geosciences Advisor. In this role, Timothy contributed to both global and domestic projects, implementing structural analysis methods that improved subsurface interpretations and drilling outcomes. His ability to balance technical detail with big-picture strategy helped drive portfolio decisions and resource prioritization.
From 2013 to 2024, Timothy served as a Geological Consultant for Marathon Oil Corporation. Over his 11-year tenure, he provided expert guidance on data analysis, reservoir modeling, and play fairway assessment. He was a key contributor to several upstream development initiatives, offering technical support that bridged exploration goals with operational execution. Timothy’s consultancy underscored his reputation as a go-to resource for critical decision-making in complex geological settings.
In addition to his professional roles, Timothy has authored and co-authored multiple publications within the geoscience community. His technical writing reflects a deep understanding of fracture characterization, fault seal analysis, and basin modeling—disciplines essential to efficient hydrocarbon discovery. He has also presented at respected forums, including the American Association of Petroleum Geologists (AAPG) and the Geological Society of America (GSA), reinforcing his thought leadership in the industry.
Internationally, Timothy has worked on exploration and development efforts across the Middle East, West Africa, and South America. His global perspective allows him to adapt to diverse geological, cultural, and regulatory environments. This exposure adds to his value as a strategic advisor capable of evaluating risk and opportunity from a global lens.
Beyond his technical and strategic contributions, Timothy is passionate about mentorship and education. He currently serves on the University of Tennessee’s Earth Sciences Board, where he helps guide the next generation of geoscientists. His commitment to lifelong learning, mentorship, and scientific integrity is evident in his interactions with peers, students, and industry leaders alike.
Timothy Davis continues to explore new opportunities to contribute to organizations at the board level, especially those in early-stage or growth-focused sectors like energy technology. With his blend of scientific expertise, leadership experience, and global insight, he is well-positioned to advise companies seeking a grounded, analytical, and visionary voice in their strategic journey.
Character:
Timothy is deeply driven by curiosity, integrity, and a desire to make meaningful contributions. His approach to leadership is rooted in humility, authenticity, and a commitment to continuous learning.
Knowledge:
With over 30 years of applied geoscience experience and a Ph.D. in Structural Geology, Timothy is a technical authority in his field. He offers advanced knowledge in structural modeling, risk assessment, and reservoir characterization.
Strategic:
Timothy has guided exploration and development efforts across multiple continents, offering strategic insights that balance technical rigor with business objectives. His experience helps organizations minimize risk and maximize opportunity in high-stakes environments.
Communication:
Renowned for his clarity and mentorship, Timothy excels at translating complex geoscientific data into actionable insights. His experience in public speaking, cross-functional collaboration, and academic outreach underscores his communication strength.
