PUD may see change in leadership in June

MOSES LAKE — Grant County PUD general manager Tony Webb submitted a succession plan to the PUD commissioners outlining his transition out of the general manager position, the PUD announced Tuesday.

Commissioners will review a resolution regarding the plan for Webb’s eventual succession at their Jan. 26 meeting before any formal action is taken, according to a release from the PUD.

Webb’s proposed plan includes a recommendation that current chief financial officer (CFO) Kevin Nordt takes Webb’s place as the general manager. Nordt would assume the helm in June 2016 if the recommendation is accepted by the commissioners.

The succession plan satisfies the board’s “longstanding request … to ensure a seamless transition” in the eventuality of Webb’s retirement from the organization, according to the PUD release.

The release indicated Webb will continue to serve “in a senior leadership capacity” after Nordt is transitioned and begins serving in the general manager capacity.

Nordt has more than 20 years of experience in the Northwest energy industry. He has served the Grant County PUD in a variety of leadership roles since he started with the district in 2004.

Webb served the PUD in various capacities since his start with the utility in 1990. He became the general manager by appointment in 2013.

“I want to make sure that I leave this place in good hands,” Webb said, via the release. “The board has always wanted assurance that there would be strong leadership in place when I leave and I believe Kevin has the experience and abilities necessary to lead. I think this is an example of proactive succession planning, which is critical to maintaining the continuity of operations here at Grant PUD.”

— Staff report