There was certainly plenty of Christmas cheer at Houston’s Hilcorp Energy Co. last week, when owner and billionaire Jeffery Hildebrand doled out $100,000 in Christmas bonuses to each of his 1,300 employees.
The largest oil and gas producer in the country, these types of generous gifts have become somewhat par for the course at Hilcorp. Five years ago, when the company achieved its goal of doubling production, Hildebrand gave each of his employees a choice between $35,000 cash or $50,000 toward a new car. As the company again doubled production, the bonus was doubled in turn to $100,000.
Despite how large a sum of money this would be to most folks, Hildebrand is estimated to be worth around $5.9bn, a number that has tripled in the past five years. According to receptionist Amanda Thompson, however, his generosity has driven company loyalty through the roof. She says:
“It’s just a true gift, and I think myself, along with everyone, is not going to give less than 100 percent each day.”
The season certainly seems bright for all of those at Hilcorp, and for their friend, family and relatives as well. No doubt the company’s business Holiday Cards will be pointing out what a successful year it has been, as well as the way the energy producer rewards its staff. Get a Free Quote for Holiday Cards
