OREANDA-NEWS. Consumers Energy, Michigan's largest utility and the fourth-largest U.S. combination utility, announced today changes to its senior leadership team.

"We are pleased to announce changes to our Company's senior leadership team, which builds on successful execution of our strategy, continuity, and our collective 'all in' commitment to provide safe, reliable and affordable electric and natural gas service to our customers and the State of Michigan," said Patti Poppe, incoming president and chief executive officer. As previously announced, Poppe on July 1 will become president and chief executive officer, replacing John Russell who has elected to retire. Also effective July 1 are the following changes:

  • Remaining in their current positions will be: Tom Webb, executive vice president and chief financial officer; John Butler, senior vice president, human resources and shared services; Dan Malone, senior vice president of energy resources; and Catherine Reynolds, senior vice president and general counsel. In addition, David Mengebier, senior vice president of governmental and public affairs, will assume responsibility for regulatory affairs.
  • Garrick Rochow is named senior vice president of distribution and customer operations. Rochow previously served as vice president of customer experience, rates & regulation, and quality.
  • Brian Rich is named senior vice president of customer experience and chief information officer. Rich previously served as vice president and chief information officer.
  • Other executive changes, reporting to David Mengebier, include:
  • Brandon Hofmeister is named vice president of governmental and public affairs. Hofmeister previously served as executive director of policy, research and public affairs.
  • Mike Torrey is named vice president of rates and regulation. Torrey previously served as executive director of rates and regulatory affairs.

Consumers Energy, Michigan's largest utility, is the principal subsidiary of CMS Energy (NYSE: CMS), providing natural gas and electricity to 6.7 million of the state's 10 million residents in all 68 Lower Peninsula counties.