#United States #Houston #CenterPoint Energy #COO #Jesus Soto

Jesus Soto, Jr. Assumes Role as Chief Operating Officer at CenterPoint Energy

HOUSTON, TX – CenterPoint Energy is set for a significant leadership transition as it welcomes Jesus Soto, Jr. as its new Chief Operating Officer (COO), effective August 11, 2025. This strategic appointment is aimed at advancing the company’s operational excellence and enhancing service delivery across its extensive customer base, which spans Indiana, Minnesota, Ohio, and Texas.

Soto brings with him more than three decades of valuable experience in the energy industry, specifically in electric transmission and distribution, gas operations, and safety management. His previous leadership roles, notably as the Executive Vice President at Quanta Services, have equipped him with the expertise required to steer CenterPoint towards meeting its ambitious growth targets.

Proven Track Record of Success

Throughout his career, Soto has been recognized for his commitment to operational excellence and safety. His previous positions have consistently demonstrated his ability to lead large-scale capital projects while adhering to strict timelines and budget constraints. Soto's understanding of the energy sector will be crucial as CenterPoint embarks on substantial investments — projected to total over $31 billion — to enhance its operational infrastructure over the next five years.

Commitment to Safety and Reliability

In his new role, Soto will oversee essential functions such as Electric Operations, Gas Operations, Safety, Supply Chain, and Customer Care. His leadership is expected to strengthen CenterPoint's reputation for reliability and safety, two key aspects that greatly affect customer satisfaction.

Jason Wells, President and CEO of CenterPoint Energy, expressed enthusiasm about Soto's appointment, stating, “We are pleased to welcome a leader of Jesus Soto's caliber to CenterPoint's executive team. His extensive background in our industry aligns perfectly with our objectives to deliver improved services and bolster economic development in key markets.” Soto himself conveyed his excitement for the opportunity, highlighting the privilege of serving around 7 million customers and meeting the growing energy demands across diverse communities, particularly in Texas.

Educational Background and Professional Involvement

Soto is a proud alumnus of the University of Texas at El Paso, where he received his bachelor's degree in civil engineering. He furthered his education by obtaining a master's degree in civil engineering from Texas A&M University, followed by an MBA from the University of Phoenix.

In addition to his corporate responsibilities, Soto is involved in the broader energy community through his roles on the Board of Directors for GTI Energy and as Chair of the Industry Pipeline Safety Management Systems Team for the American Petroleum Institute. His leadership in these positions emphasizes his dedication to industry advancement and safety standards.

CenterPoint Energy's Future

As CenterPoint Energy prepares for a transformative phase, the company is leveraging Soto's comprehensive skill set and experience to navigate challenges in the energy landscape. This appointment signals a new era of focused growth and enhanced service delivery for its customers, ensuring that the company remains a key player in the energy sector.

With approximately 8,300 employees and a legacy spanning over 150 years, CenterPoint Energy continues to lead in providing electric and natural gas services while maintaining a firm commitment to innovation and safety. Soto's leadership is anticipated to usher in further improvements, aligning with the company's strategic vision for a more resilient and efficient future.

In conclusion, the arrival of Jesus Soto, Jr. as the Chief Operating Officer marks a pivotal moment for CenterPoint Energy. As the company embarks on its $31 billion investment plan, Soto's leadership will be critical in driving operational improvements, enhancing customer experiences, and ensuring safety across all operations.

For more information about CenterPoint Energy, please visit CenterPointEnergy.com.