#United States #Richmond #Energy Sector #Diane Leopold #Dominion Energy

Diane Leopold to Retire from Dominion Energy

Dominion Energy has recently revealed that Diane Leopold, its executive vice president and chief operating officer, will retire effective June 1, 2025. This marks the culmination of a remarkable 36-year career in the energy industry, with 30 years spent at Dominion.

As her retirement approaches, Leopold will continue to serve in her current role while gradually transferring her responsibilities involving utility and contracted energy operations to key executives within the company. Ed Baine, currently the president of Dominion Energy Virginia, will expand his role to include president of utility operations, while Eric Carr, the chief nuclear officer, will take on enhanced responsibilities in nuclear operations and contracted energy.

Leopold's tenure at Dominion has been marked by her instrumental contributions to the company’s growth and success. Since joining in 1995, she has risen through the ranks and held various pivotal positions, becoming an officer in 2004 and eventually serving as executive vice president and co-COO since 2019. Her leadership has been vital in steering the company through significant operational, financial, and strategic developments.

Bob Blue, the chair, president, and CEO of Dominion Energy, praised Leopold, stating, “Diane is among the most dedicated and capable leaders in our industry. Her performance over the years in diverse areas like operations and business development is commendable.” He emphasized her meticulous, detail-oriented leadership style and her commitment to nurturing talent within the company.

Under Leopold's guidance, Dominion Energy has executed several multibillion-dollar infrastructure projects, showcasing her expertise and visionary approach. She has played a crucial role in initiatives such as the Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind project and the development of the Charybdis, the first turbine installation vessel in the United States compliant with the Jones Act.

In addition to her work at Dominion, Leopold actively participates in broader energy industry governance. She is a board member of Nuclear Electric Insurance Limited and has previously served as chair for both the Interstate Natural Gas Association of America and the American Gas Association. Furthermore, she contributes to several boards, including those of the Markel Group, Jamestown-Yorktown Foundation, GROW Capital Jobs Foundation, and World Pediatric Project.

The company’s transition plan will see Baine assume responsibility for Dominion Energy South Carolina, significantly expanding his leadership role in managing utility services for millions of customers. Baine’s extensive background, having joined as an associate engineer in 1995, equips him with a strong understanding of the operational frameworks.

Meanwhile, Eric Carr, who joined Dominion in 2023, will bring his previous experience from PSEG to lead the company’s nuclear and renewable energy segments effectively, ensuring continuity in leadership and operational excellence.

Dominion Energy is headquartered in Richmond, Virginia, and provides regulated electricity services to 3.6 million customers across Virginia, North Carolina, and South Carolina. With a mission to deliver reliable and increasingly clean energy, the company stands as a leader in renewable energy development in the region.

For more information on Dominion Energy and its future leadership strategies, please visit their official website.