Early Life and Education
Robert Pender was born in the United States. He graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in History from Middlebury College in 1976 and earned a Juris Doctor from Georgetown University Law School in 1982.
Rise to Success
Pender co-founded Venture Global LNG with Michael Sabel in 2013. Together, they own more than 80% of the company. Pender previously worked as a partner at Hogan Lovells, specializing in energy and infrastructure projects. His expertise in energy project finance, including sustainable energy, played a crucial role in his career. Venture Global went public in January 2025 at a nearly $60 billion valuation. Pender and Sabel served as co-CEOs until 2020, when Pender retired from the role, and Sabel became the sole chief executive.
Key Business Strategies
Venture Global LNG focused on the rapid development of LNG export facilities using innovative modular construction techniques. Pender's leadership has been key in developing significant production capacity in Louisiana, particularly the Calcasieu Pass and Plaquemines LNG facilities. The company has exported over 300 cargoes of LNG since operations began in 2022. Venture Global aimed to reduce costs and enhance the accessibility of LNG, which has been central to its strategy.
Philanthropy
Robert Pender has provided pro bono support to the American Red Cross and the Government of Haiti, demonstrating his commitment to humanitarian efforts.