Debra Richmond

Director of Strategic Initiatives
Permian Strategic Partnership

Debra Richmond is the Director of Road Safety Strategic Initiatives for the Permian Strategic Partnership (PSP), a collaboration between local communities, 30 oil and gas companies, and two university systems operating in the Permian Basin. Debra leads the PSP Road Safety Committee whose mission is to reduce crashes and fatalities, improve road infrastructure, and develop partner relationships. She represents the PSP on road safety and transportation funding issues at the Texas Department of Transportation, the Texas Department of Public Safety, the New Mexico Department of Transportation, the New Mexico Department of Public Safety, the Permian Basin Metropolitan Planning Organization, and all other Permian Basin transportation stakeholders including counties, cities, and emergency management departments.

Prior to joining the PSP, Debra worked for the Texas Department of Transportation’s Government Affairs Division where she successfully managed several major projects, built coalitions, and represented the agency at all levels of government. Debra’s leadership resulted in improved business processes, cost- savings, and over $130 million in competitive federal discretionary grant funds being awarded to TxDOT.

A Houston native, Debra began her career in Washington, D.C. and spent several years as political fundraiser. Past leadership positions include Finance Director roles at prominent national and state committees.

Debra is passionate about strategic planning, customer service, and community involvement. She holds a bachelor’s degree in political science from Baylor University and is a certified Project Management Professional (PMP)®.