#United States #Las Vegas #Southwest Gas #Justin Brown #Karen Haller

Southwest Gas Holdings Announces New CEO

Introduction
Southwest Gas Holdings, Inc. has set the stage for a significant leadership transition by announcing the appointment of Justin Brown as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective May 8, 2026. The decision follows the retirement of Karen Haller, who has served with distinction as President and CEO for 29 years.

Leadership Transition
Karen Haller has been a pivotal figure in the company’s history, leading Southwest Gas through impactful milestones and ensuring a solid foundation for its future. Her leadership is noted for successfully migrating the company into a fully regulated natural gas business and achieving major financial and operational improvements. Haller’s retirement opens the door for Brown, who has built up an esteemed career within the company.

About Justin Brown
Currently serving as President of Southwest Gas Corporation, Brown has been integral to leading the company’s utility operations across Arizona, California, and Nevada, delivering services to nearly 2.3 million customers. His career with Southwest Gas began in 2004 when he joined as Senior Counsel in Legal Affairs. Over the years, he has progressed through various leadership roles, showcasing a profound commitment to the company’s mission and its stakeholders.

Having held positions such as Vice President of Pricing, Vice President of Regulatory Affairs, and Senior Vice President/General Counsel, Brown has amassed valuable insights that equip him well for the CEO role. His deep understanding of the industry and dedication to customer service exemplifies the qualities sought in a leader during this period of transition.

Support During Transition
To assure a seamless transition, Haller has agreed to stay on as an advisor until the end of 2026. This decision is meant to facilitate the handover of leadership responsibilities and ensure that strategic initiatives are maintained uninterrupted. Haller expressed confidence in Brown’s capabilities, emphasizing her belief in his capacity to steer the company towards new horizons of success, stating, _“Justin is the right leader to guide the Company into its next phase.”_

Recognition and Future Plans
Brown’s proven leadership has garnered the trust of the Board of Directors. E. Renae Conley, the Chairwoman, expressed full confidence in his ability to lead the company effectively amid ongoing changes in the energy landscape. In his new role, Brown plans to build upon the customer-focused culture established by prior leadership while strengthening the company’s commitment to safety, reliability, and affordability.

As part of its strategic plans, Southwest Gas Holdings has recently reported a dividend increase for 2026, reflecting a robust financial position and a commitment to shared value with stakeholders. The company looks forward to expanding its sustainable energy solutions while responding to the evolving needs of its customer base.

Conclusion
The transition in leadership marks a pivotal moment for Southwest Gas Holdings, combining a legacy of distinguished service with forward-looking ambitions. With Justin Brown at the helm, the company is poised to continue its trajectory of growth, innovation, and unwavering service excellence. The dedication of both Haller and Brown serves as a testament to the strength of leadership within Southwest Gas and the promising future that lies ahead.