EnergyAustralia has appointed a new Managing Director, effective 1 July 2021, following current Managing Director Catherine Tanna’s decision to retire after seven years at the helm.
Mark Collette has been appointed to the role, with Chairman, Graham Bradley AM, saying the board is confident that he will continue to strengthen EnergyAustralia’s position as a leading energy retailer and generator.
“Succession planning began two years ago, and we’re thrilled that an internal candidate has been appointed following a comprehensive domestic and international recruitment process,” Mr Bradley said.
“Mark is a highly experienced executive who has played a pivotal role in positioning EnergyAustralia to navigate the complexities of the energy transition.
“Under Mark’s leadership we will continue to pursue opportunities as we build a modern energy business that helps keep the lights on.”
Mr Collette joined EnergyAustralia in 2003 and since then has led the Customer, Energy, Trading, and Corporate Strategy and Development teams.
He is a Director of the Australian Energy Council Board, a former director of the Australian Financial Markets Association, member of the Reliability Panel and holds degrees in aerospace engineering, business administration and economics.
Mr Collette succeeds Ms Tanna, one of Australia’s most respected leaders, credited as being one of the first in the industry to commit their business to becoming carbon neutral by 2050.
“I would like to take this opportunity to thank Catherine for her tremendous achievements and for developing a first-class team,” Mr Bradley said.
“In her trademark authentic and approachable style, she built a culture that enables people to do their best work.
“Before COVID-19 changed the world of work, Cath had already encouraged progressive ways of working for EnergyAustralia’s people.
“She is also a passionate and genuine supporter of a range of social issues including diversity and inclusion, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander reconciliation, and workplace giving.
“That an internal candidate succeeds her is testament to the investment she made in people.
“She is widely respected by the people of EnergyAustralia and although she will be missed, we understand she feels that it’s the right time to pass the baton.”
Mr Collette said he is honoured to become EnergyAustralia’s next Managing Director and is particularly looking forward to bringing to fruition recently announced initiatives.
“I thank the board for this opportunity and am committed to carry on the work to build a thriving business capable of delivering momentous projects, such as Australia’s first four-hour, 350MW utility-scale battery by 2026,” Mr Collette said.
“Our people are our greatest strength and together we will continue to supply energy safely, and reliably, to our 2.4 million customers.”
Ms Tanna said that she is delighted that her successor has been appointed from within EnergyAustralia’s ranks.
“Developing leaders has been a priority and I’m so pleased that this has enabled us to deliver a leadership transition that best suits our business,” Ms Tanna said.
“I congratulate Mark and know that he has the expertise, the drive and vision to lead a business that has become infinitely more complex over time.”
Ms Tanna will continue to lead the company until 1 July 2021.
The Australian Energy Council thanked Ms Tanna for her contribution to the energy sector.
“Cath has been a hugely influential figure in the Australian energy sector. She is one of the most highly respected business people in the country and her contributions to public policy debates will be greatly missed,” AEC Chief Executive, Sarah McNamara, said.
“I would also like to congratulate Cath’s successor, Mark Collette, on his appointment as Managing Director of EnergyAustralia.
“This is worthy recognition of Mark’s experience, depth of knowledge and leadership skills. Mark has been a valuable member of the AEC Board since 2016 and is a fantastic choice to succeed Cath Tanna.
“We look forward to working with Mark in his new role at what is an exciting time of change and challenge for the energy industry.”
