Emera Inc. announced that Judy Steele, President and Chief Operating Officer of Emera Energy, will retire effective June 30, 2026, after 26 years with the company. Steele’s departure follows a long tenure that included roles as CFO of Emera Inc. and 14 years leading Emera Energy’s North American operations.
Karen Hutt, currently Executive Vice‑President of Corporate Development at Emera Inc., will step into the CEO role at Emera Energy, while Drew Turner will become Chief Operating Officer. Hutt’s appointment follows her extensive experience within Emera, including service as Executive Vice‑President, Commercial at Emera Energy, President and CEO of Nova Scotia Power, and a key role in the TECO Energy transaction. Turner, who has spent 18 years at Emera Energy in various commercial roles, will oversee day‑to‑day operations as COO.
The transition is part of Emera’s broader strategy to maintain leadership continuity and internal succession planning. Emera’s overall growth strategy centers on decarbonization, grid resilience, and disciplined capital allocation, targeting regulated returns and scale in Florida, Atlantic Canada, and the Caribbean. The company has a $20 billion capital plan through 2030 focused on reliability, modernization, renewables, and technology, and the new leadership will be responsible for executing that plan while supporting growth initiatives across North America.
Scott Balfour, President and CEO of Emera Inc., said, "We are grateful for Judy’s leadership and the indelible mark she has left on Emera, with her strategic insight, financial discipline, and commitment to building the skilled team at Emera Energy." Judy Steele added, "I am proud of what our teams have built at Emera Energy" and expressed gratitude for her career opportunities at the company. Karen Hutt commented, "These appointments reflect Emera's focus on leadership continuity and internal succession. Judy leaves Emera Energy with an excellent foundation, and I look forward to working with Drew and the team as we build on that legacy and continue to move the business forward."
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