HERstory in Portraits: Teri

Navigating Risk, Building Leaders

Women across Texas are shaping industries that power the economy, influence global markets, and define the future of business. Yet many of their most meaningful contributions happen behind the scenes, through mentorship, strategic thinking, and steady leadership. HERstory in Portraits exists to bring those stories forward, celebrating women whose influence is both profound and enduring.

As Chief Compliance Officer for a large oil and gas company, Teri Cotton Santos operates at the intersection of law, business, and strategy. Her role is rooted in navigating risk (regulatory, legal, and operational) but her true impact extends far beyond compliance. With a background as a former litigator and deep expertise in regulatory and risk mitigation, she helps her organization think forward, resolve disputes, and make decisions that protect both people and performance.

At her core, Teri is a problem-solver. She excels in moments of tension, asking the essential question: How can we get to a resolution? That mindset has defined her career and shaped her leadership philosophy.

A Career Shaped by Global Perspective

Teri’s professional journey has taken her across cities and continents, including St. Louis, Indianapolis, Hong Kong, Chicago, Dallas, and now Houston. Each move added perspective, not just on business, but on people, culture, and leadership.

Living and working in diverse environments sharpened her ability to navigate complexity and ambiguity, skills that are critical in her current role. It also reinforced the importance of adaptability and empathy – qualities she now passes on to others through mentorship and leadership development.

Investing in Leaders, Amplifying Impact

Leadership development isn’t a side project for Teri, it’s a central mission.

She actively mentors young professionals, including early-career lawyers and compliance professionals, helping them think strategically about their careers and long-term growth. Within her company, she serves as a cohort leader in a leadership development program, guiding participants toward career-forward thinking and stronger leadership skills.

She is always asking how she can better support and develop her team. She is constantly sharing articles, insights, and ideas, a habit fueled by her love of learning and reading.

Teri stays engaged with professional development through books and publications like Harvard Business Review. One recent favorite is The Let Them Theory by Mel Robbins. She frequently shares insights with her leadership team, guided by a principle she firmly believes in: “Leaders are Readers.”

Her commitment to learning isn’t just personal, it’s organizational. “Investing in the development of your leaders amplifies the growth of the entire organization,” she says.

Giving Back to Women and Girls

Beyond her corporate leadership, Teri is intentional about giving back. She is a donor to the Fort Bend Women’s Center and hopes to become more involved with Girls Inc. locally as she continues to settle into the Houston area. She is also open to corporate board service opportunities and is eager to support organizations and initiatives that impact women and girls.

Her service reflects a broader commitment to creating pathways for others – particularly women – to lead, thrive, and grow with confidence.

Balance, Reflection, and Forward Momentum

In her free time, Teri finds clarity outdoors. Walking is both a form of exercise and a mental reset – a way to clear her head, refocus, and return to her work with intention.

That balance is part of what makes her leadership sustainable. She is always thinking strategically, always observing, always asking how she can better support the people around her. Her eyes are open for opportunities, not just for herself, but for her team.

Why HERstory Matters

Teri Cotton Santos embodies the heart of HERstory in Portraits. Her leadership is steady, thoughtful, and deeply influential.

Her story reminds us that leadership isn’t only about titles or visibility – it’s about investing in others, resolving challenges with integrity, and allowing people and organizations to grow.

By celebrating women like Teri, we shine a light on the leaders shaping Texas from the inside out with strategy, compassion, and purpose.

That’s HERstory. And it’s worth celebrating.