A Look Back at Anthony Wilson's Impact on Mississippi Power and His Upcoming Retirement

Retirement Announcement of Anthony Wilson

In a significant announcement, Anthony Wilson, the Chairman, President, and CEO of Mississippi Power, declared his plan to retire this summer after an impressive career that spans over four decades. This pivotal decision comes as he reflects on his remarkable journey with Mississippi Power and its parent company, Southern Company.

Wilson, who grew up in the same region he served, expressed his gratitude, stating, "I have been very blessed to work in the region where I grew up and love tremendously." His leadership has played an integral role in ensuring that Mississippi Power delivers safe and reliable energy to its customers across southeast Mississippi.

Under Wilson’s governance, Mississippi Power has established itself as a leader in safety and reliability in the energy sector. The company has frequently received accolades from prestigious organizations such as the Southeastern Electric Exchange, recognizing its safety performance, and the Edison Electric Institute for exemplary storm responses.

As Mississippi Power celebrates its centennial year, the company has witnessed unprecedented growth. Notably, recent contracts with two major customers have led to over $10 billion in investments in southeast Mississippi, solidifying its future amidst changing economic landscapes.

Chris Womack, the Chairman, President, and CEO of Southern Company, praised Wilson’s commitment, saying, "Anthony's legacy will always be one of dedication to his customers and employees as well as to all citizens of Mississippi." Womack highlighted Wilson's advocacy for economic and workforce development as crucial aspects of his leadership.

One of Wilson's most notable contributions was his role in the Mississippi Economic Council (MEC). In 2020, he spearheaded the MEC's "It's Time" campaign, which successfully rallied support from over 1,000 businesses and individuals to advocate for changing the state flag, a powerful symbol of unity and progress. This initiative led to a historic transformation in Mississippi's perception and has spurred economic development.

Beyond corporate achievements, Wilson has committed substantial time to various boards and organizations within the community, including the Mississippi State University Foundation and the Gulf Coast Business Council. His influence extended further when he was appointed by Governor Tate Reeves to head the Energy Impact Committee, aimed at overseeing economic recovery efforts amid challenging times.

Wilson's journey with Mississippi Power began in 1984 as an engineering cooperative education student in Biloxi, Mississippi, before he moved to Georgia Power in 2002, where he held numerous executive positions. He returned to Mississippi Power in 2015, where he has since made indelible contributions.

Now, as he prepares to step down, Wilson's legacy at Mississippi Power remains clear. The company, which serves more than 192,000 customers across 23 counties, has committed to providing clean, safe, and reliable energy, achieving recognition for its outstanding service and storm response capabilities.

As Anthony Wilson embarks on this new chapter of his life, he leaves behind a substantial legacy, one defined by dedication, community service, and a relentless pursuit of excellence in energy provision. His impact on Mississippi Power, the industry, and the community will resound for years to come.