PRECorp begins transition to new CEO

Powder River Energy (PRECorp) is set to welcome new leadership later this year, and the process begins now. Long-term CEO Mike Easley will begin transitioning out of his current role, while Deputy General Manager Brian Mills assumes increasing responsibilities of the CEO and will formally assume all duties on August 1.

This plan is the result of discussions between the PRECorp board and leadership team in response to Easley's decision to depart the cooperative at the end of 2023.

'PRECorp has always had a strategic eye toward the future and proactively addresses challenges and opportunities on the horizon. "Succession planning and developing bench strength has always been a part of our strategic focus," says Board President Reuben Ritthaler.

"Given Brian's development over his years with the company and experience gained since being named deputy general manager in 2017, his transition to succeed Mike nearly assures a seamless transition for our membership and the cooperative. The board and I thank Mike for his two decades of service to the membership and leaving us with a healthy cooperative and a top-notch team of employees who put the members first."

After two decades of service to the cooperative, Easley says he realized it was time for new challenges.

"It has been a fantastic opportunity to lead PRECorp through some significant challenges, however, when the time came in 2021 to discuss my future plans with the board, I determined that after 40 years in the utility business – 21 here at PRECorp – I wanted to turn the page on my career and go in a new direction, one that further leverages my years of leadership experience," he says.

"I'm confident in the direction we are headed as a cooperative and I'm looking forward to what the future will bring. The board and I will continue to work closely with Brian over the next year to ensure the change is smooth for our members and employee team."

Mills has been with PRECorp for almost 18 years, assuming increasing leadership roles and responsibilities. He is currently both Deputy General Manager and Human Resources Officer.

"I am honored and extremely appreciative for this opportunity and the trust the Board is placing in me to lead our cooperative. Taking the baton from Mike, I see a bright future for PRECorp," he says.

"PRECorp is well positioned to create and take advantage of opportunities that will benefit our members, even amongst the challenges that may arise. This optimism is due to the unmatched employee team we are blessed with, who are dedicated, professional and trusted. I look forward to continuing to serve alongside each of them, every day, to deliver great service to our members."