Baker Botts L.L.P., a leading international energy, technology, and life sciences law firm, is pleased to announce Chris Thiele has joined the Firm as a partner in the Litigation practice within its Environmental, Safety and Incident Response (ESIR) Section. Most recently, Thiele served as Senior Vice President and legal counsel for an independent midstream energy infrastructure development company. While in that role, Thiele led regulatory, environmental, and governmental affairs, including FERC and other permitting efforts for an interstate natural gas pipeline and related midstream infrastructure projects.
Thiele brings more than 25 years of environmental law experience, including over a decade as in-house counsel at Koch Industries.
A recognized leader in Clean Air Act matters, Thiele advises clients on air quality permitting, compliance audits, enforcement defense, emissions credit transactions, and regulatory advocacy. With a background in engineering, he brings a unique ability to engage with the technical aspects of complex projects. Over the course of his career, he has successfully obtained and defended permits for energy and industrial developments across the U.S. and internationally, including in Brazil, India, Mexico, and Saudi Arabia.
“We have an outstanding Environmental and Safety Incident Response practice. Hiring Chris elevates our capabilities and reach,” said Danny David, Managing Partner of Baker Botts. “He has counseled clients through permitting and compliance matters that go right to the core of their business strategies. His on-the-ground experience makes him a rare talent. Chris is going to have an immediate positive impact for our clients.”
“Chris’s experience and credibility in the environmental and permitting space are second to none,” said Scott Janoe, Chair of Baker Botts’ Environmental, Safety and Incident Response Section. “He brings a practical, strategic mindset to high-stakes projects, and his insight will be incredibly valuable to clients navigating today’s regulatory challenges. We’re excited to welcome him to the team.”
“I’m excited to join Baker Botts and work alongside one of the most respected environmental teams in the country,” said Chris Thiele. “The firm’s reputation for excellence in complex matters is unmatched, and I’m looking forward to rolling up my sleeves and contributing to the impactful work the team is doing.”
Thiele earned his B.S. in industrial engineering, cum laude, from Texas A&M University, and his J.D. from the University of Texas School of Law.
