Pete Bell co-founded Cotton with Daryn Ebrecht in 1996, serving as CEO since inception, with a vision to develop a turnkey disaster solutions company. Under Pete’s leadership, Cotton has been instrumental in the recovery and restoration efforts stemming from the world’s most damaging catastrophes of the past three decades, including high-impact weather events, wildfires, terrorism, humanitarian crises, vandalism and environmental mishaps. Beyond disasters, Cotton provides comprehensive logistical support solutions and consultation services to a host of clients in verticals including energy, government, education, medical, infrastructure and more.

As Founder and Chairman of Cotton Holdings, Inc. with extensive experience in managing disaster restoration efforts, Pete Bell is highly engaged in shaping the company’s long-term vision and strategy. He plays a critical role in guiding corporate direction, strengthening political and industry relationships and identifying opportunities for growth through strategic partnerships and acquisitions.

With a forward-looking approach, Pete has been instrumental in expanding Cotton’s family of services — leading multiple successful mergers and acquisitions that have strengthened Cotton Holdings’ footprint and ensured its position as a global leader in recovery and restoration solutions. Pete has guided Cotton’s steady growth to amass over 50 facilities across North America, including official response centers in Mexico and Puerto Rico.

Pete holds a Bachelor of Business Administration from Sam Houston State University, where he served as president of Sigma Chi Fraternity. In 2008, he was the recipient of the Sam Houston State University Distinguished Alumni Award. In partnership with Cotton, Pete has also established Cotton Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to delivering hope and comfort to children who are the victims of natural disasters and other life-changing events with the goal of restoring hope.