JPMorgan Chase is making strategic moves to reinforce its investment banking services for the energy sector. The bank has appointed two seasoned bankers, Max Barrett and Brad Epstein, as managing directors, both based in Houston. This move highlights JPMorgan’s commitment to expanding its presence in energy-rich regions and providing specialized financial services to energy companies.
New Leadership in Energy Investment Banking
Max Barrett will lead efforts to support and build relationships with companies providing services and equipment in the energy space. Barrett brings extensive experience from his tenure at TPH, the energy-focused investment banking arm of Perella Weinberg Partners, and at private equity firm White Deer Energy. His appointment is expected to strengthen JPMorgan’s ability to provide tailored financial solutions to energy companies navigating complex market conditions.
Brad Epstein joins the natural resources investment banking coverage team, focusing on serving companies in the midstream and downstream sectors. With 13 years at Citigroup’s energy investment bank and previous roles at UBS and Citadel, Epstein brings deep expertise in refining, renewable fuels, and midstream infrastructure. His arrival signals JPMorgan’s intent to bolster its capabilities across the energy value chain.
Strategic Focus on Middle-Market Energy Companies
These new appointments are part of JPMorgan’s broader strategy to enhance services for middle-market energy companies. By creating a dedicated team within its mid-cap investment banking unit, the bank aims to provide highly specialized solutions tailored to the needs of energy clients. This focus includes advising companies on mergers and acquisitions, capital raising, and strategic financial planning, which are increasingly important in a rapidly evolving energy market.
The energy sector is facing significant changes, from fluctuating oil and gas prices to increased investment in renewable energy sources. JPMorgan’s strengthened team is well-positioned to help energy companies navigate these challenges while seizing growth opportunities.
Implications for the Energy Sector
JPMorgan’s expansion in energy banking reflects the growing significance of energy companies in the global economy. As demand for energy services and infrastructure continues to rise, having dedicated expertise within the bank ensures that clients receive comprehensive guidance. These hires also demonstrate JPMorgan’s commitment to supporting both traditional and emerging sectors within energy, from oil and gas to renewables and sustainable infrastructure projects.
For investors and companies alike, the arrival of Barrett and Epstein signals increased access to strategic financial services that can help energy firms adapt, grow, and remain competitive. It also underscores the importance of strong advisory teams in helping mid-sized energy companies thrive in an environment of market volatility and regulatory shifts.
JPMorgan’s focused approach highlights how financial institutions are adapting to meet the evolving needs of the energy sector, ensuring that clients have access to the expertise and resources necessary to achieve their long-term goals.
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Source: Reuters, “JPMorgan hires two investment bankers to bolster services to energy companies”, published August 21, 2025
