Swift Current Energy Unveils New Executive Leadership Team
In an exciting development for the clean energy sector, Swift Current Energy has announced the establishment of a new executive leadership team as of August 1, 2026. This move reflects the company's commitment to nurturing leadership from within, strategically positioning itself for the next phase of growth amidst rising electricity demands.
The firm’s co-founders, Matt Birchby, Peter Mara, Will Havemeyer, and William Kelsey, are stepping away after a decade of diligent work in establishing Swift Current as a key player in the clean energy landscape. Their resignation comes with the conviction that an exceptional leadership team has been cultivated, ready to usher in an innovative future for the company.
Among the five significant appointments made to the executive management team is Phillip Westerby, who has taken the role of Chief Operating Officer. His responsibilities will include overseeing procurement, engineering, construction, and asset management, ensuring that operations align with the company's growth strategy.
Katie Ostman has stepped into the position of Chief Legal Officer, tasked with steering the company’s legal framework to support complex project developments and commercial agreements. Since joining in 2022, she has been an integral part of Swift Current’s legal strategy.
Rick Miller has been appointed as the Interim Chief Development Officer. His nearly 20 years of experience in renewable energy development will be crucial as he drives the company's development portfolio forward, lending his expertise from inception to commercialization of energy projects.
Chris Calitri joins as the Executive Vice President for Investments and Capital Markets. With a strong background in both finance and engineering, Calitri is set to lead the capital markets, strategic planning, and investment activities, further solidifying financial growth as a priority for Swift Current.
In rounding out the new executive team, Caroline Mann has been appointed Executive Vice President of Commercial, where she will oversee power marketing and revenue contracting strategy following her successful tenure with the company since 2017.
Michael Arndt, the Chief Executive Officer, expressed his enthusiasm about these appointments, emphasizing that each individual has significantly contributed to Swift Current's success thus far. With their robust industry connections and experience, they are poised to advance the company's initiatives to meet the demand for clean energy in a rapidly evolving marketplace.
Co-founder Matt Birchby stated that the team developed over the past decade has tremendous potential. He expressed pride in what they have achieved together and confidence in the new executive team's leadership capability moving forward.
Peter Mara added that the efforts of the entire team are essential for raising capital to develop large-scale clean energy projects. He looks forward to seeing the team excel in securing market-leading transactions.
Will Havemeyer commented on Swift Current's emergence as a steady partner in a fast-changing industry, highlighting the indispensable relationships they've built with stakeholders. He is optimistic for the continued success of the company under the leadership of homegrown talent.
William Kelsey also stressed the importance of enduring partnerships with landowners and stakeholders, emphasizing that these relationships have been fundamental to Swift Current’s achievements and will be integral to future projects.
As Swift Current Energy embarks on this new chapter, Neil Doherty, Executive Director at IFM Investors, applauded their solid position in the clean energy market. He appreciates the foundational role played by Birchby, Mara, Havemeyer, and Kelsey and looks forward to supporting the new executive team.
Founded in 2016, Swift Current Energy has become a significant force in developing utility-scale solar, wind, and energy storage projects across North America. With the ability to commercialize 5 gigawatts of clean energy projects and a pipeline exceeding 10 gigawatts, the company aims to further its commitment to providing reliable, large-scale clean energy solutions in the forthcoming phase of growth.
To learn more, please visit
swiftcurrentenergy.com.