Don Brandt, CEO of Arizona Public Service and chairman, president, and CEO of Pinnacle West, will be retiring in November, the company announced Wednesday. Brandt served 16 years with the electric utility holding company, which serves 2.7 million people in the state.
“Our employees, customers and shareholders have greatly benefited from Don’s remarkable leadership and his strong and steady hand. His impact extends beyond APS,” Kathy Munro, lead director of the Pinnacle West board, said in a statement. “Don is recognized nationally for his work in the nuclear industry, leadership in solar energy, and commitment to first responders and veterans. He is personally dedicated to making our communities better places to live and work, and his direct involvement in tackling some of the state’s biggest challenges is a tribute to Don’s character.”
The Pinnacle West Board of Directors announced that current APS president Jeff Guldner will join the board effective immediately and will fill Brandt’s capacities with the company starting Nov. 15, 2019.
Guldner joined APS in 2004 and has served as executive vice president of public policy, general counsel and responsible for customer service.
“I have total confidence that Jeff Guldner and his team will successfully navigate what will be a dynamic and new energy environment for APS and Arizona,” Brandt said. “This team is prepared to succeed for our customers and shareholders.”
Guldner looks to focus on internal and external priorities.
“Without question, we face a rapidly changing energy future,” Guldner commented. “We remain dedicated to our communities, customers and employees as we provide clean, reliable and affordable energy to our growing state. These core priorities will continue to shape the way we manage our business going forward.”
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