Shawn Bennett is the Deputy Assistant Secretary for the Office of Oil and Natural Gas in the US Department of Energy. He administers oil and gas programs involving research and development, analysis, and natural gas regulation including LNG exports. Mr. Bennett oversees the offices of research, regulation, engagement, and technology transfer with more than a decade of experience in public affairs and government relations from both oil and gas and coal industries. Prior to joining the Department he served as the Executive Vice President for the Ohio Oil and Gas Association and was the Director of Strategic Communications for FTI Consulting.