Natura Resources Boosts Strategic Leadership for Advanced Nuclear Reactor Launch

Natura Resources LLC is making significant strides in its journey towards deploying cutting-edge nuclear technology. The company recently announced the expansion of its executive leadership team, a move designed to facilitate the transition from development to deployment of one of America's first Generation IV nuclear reactors. This leadership enhancement reflects Natura's commitment to meet the growing demands for clean energy, medical isotopes, and reliable services.

Key Appointments

One of the notable additions is Rogers Herndon, who has taken on the role of Chief Financial Officer. With over 30 years of experience in the energy sector, Herndon is tasked with overseeing the financial framework and capital strategy pivotal to Natura's next growth phase. His background includes leadership positions across several industries, including power, oil and gas, and infrastructure, indicating a profound understanding of the market dynamics at play.

Following him, William "Bill" Jessup assumed the position of Chief Nuclear Officer in December 2025. Jessup's vast experience in nuclear regulation and operations brings a wealth of knowledge to the company, as he will lead safety, operations, maintenance, and regulatory processes. His previous roles at the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) and Duke Energy further equip him to navigate complex regulatory landscapes.

Jill McWhirter has been appointed as Executive Vice President and Chief Legal Officer. Her extensive 25-year background in legal and nuclear energy sectors positions her perfectly to spearhead Natura's compliance and governance strategies. With experience as a nuclear engineer at Westinghouse and a legal advisor on advanced reactor developments, McWhirter's expertise will be crucial as Natura ventures deeper into nuclear technology.

In September 2025, Jordan Robison was promoted to Chief Operating Officer, assuming responsibility for project execution and operational strategies. Robison's tenure with Natura since 2020 highlights his pivotal role in developing and deploying the MSR-1 demonstration project. His prior experience spans the semiconductor and oil industries, underscoring his diverse skill set valuable for the company's objectives.

A Defining Moment for Natura

Doug Robison, Founder and CEO of Natura Resources, emphasized that these strategic leadership additions signal a critical turning point for the company. He stated, “Each of these leaders brings proven execution and critical expertise in the exact disciplines that will help ensure our advanced, molten salt nuclear technology can be delivered safely, on time, and at commercial scale.” This includes addressing growing demands for reliable energy and clean water solutions as well as medical isotope production.

Herndon, prior to joining Natura, served as the Interim CFO at HydroStor, a leading advanced compressed air energy storage company. His track record also includes positions at Bank of America and Enron, which add layers of financial acumen to his already rich experience.

Jessup's previous role at Shepherd Power, where he was instrumental in nuclear technology initiatives, complements his regulatory expertise from the NRC. This diverse background allows him to advocate effectively for advanced reactor licensing and operational safety.

McWhirter's previous legal expertise as a partner at King Spalding LLP further solidifies Natura's legal framework within the nuclear sector. Having worked as a decontamination engineer at nuclear facilities, she holds an intricate understanding of the regulatory environment shaping nuclear energy developments.

Robison's engineering and program management background, specifically in nuclear reactor design, positions him well to oversee the transition from development to deployment phases effectively. His educational credentials in physics and mechanical engineering enrich his technical leadership.

Natura Resources' Vision

Founded with a mission to rapidly advance nuclear technologies, Natura Resources LLC is recognized as a leading developer of advanced small modular reactors (SMRs). The company is committed to addressing domestic and global energy demands through its innovative designs, which utilize liquid-fueled and molten salt-cooled technologies that enhance safety and reduce waste. With financial backing surpassing $120 million, including a commitment from the State of Texas, Natura demonstrates readiness to deliver sustainable energy solutions. As they progress with the first construction permit for a liquid-fueled reactor from the NRC, the company is set to redefine energy generation within America and beyond.

In conclusion, with its newly fortified leadership team, Natura Resources appears poised to make significant progress in the nuclear sector. Their strategic transition from development to deployment highlights the potential impact of advanced nuclear technology in addressing critical energy needs in a world increasingly focused on sustainability.