Powerlink Queensland has appointed its new Chief Executive, a professor at Griffith University and a Member of the Order of Australia.
Professor Paul Simshauser AM has been appointed to the role, and will bring more than 20 years’ experience in the energy industry across the public and private sectors to the company.
He will take over from Interim Chief Executive, Kevin Kehl.
Professor Simshauser is a Professor of Economics at Griffith University, where he specialises in energy economics and energy policy.
He is currently Executive General Manager – Energy Markets at Infigen Energy, and was previously Director-General Department of Energy & Water Supply for the Queensland Government and Chief Economist for AGL.
Powerlink Chair, Kathy Hirschfeld AM, said the business would benefit from Professor Simshauser’s unique understanding of the energy industry, having extensive experience in generation, retail, energy policy and the regulatory environment.
“Paul brings a wealth of leadership skills and industry experience to the role,” Ms Hirschfeld said.
Professor Simshauser’s primary focus will be on Powerlink continuing to deliver a safe, reliable and cost-effective supply of electricity to more than four million Queenslanders.
“The board looks forward to working closely with him to develop a transmission business for the future – particularly as we transition through a time of great uncertainty due to the COVID-19 pandemic,” Ms Hirschfeld said.
“His experience will be vital to ensure we deliver better outcomes for our customers by adapting the way transmission networks operate to meet our changing environment.
“I would also like to acknowledge the significant contribution of Interim Chief Executive, Kevin Kehl, whose leadership has kept the business focused and ensured a smooth transition.”
Professor Simshauser will commence his role at Powerlink on 1 June 2020. His appointment follows a comprehensive recruitment process that attracted strong interest from across Australia.
