Columbia Power Corporation (Columbia Power) has announced the appointment of Frank Wszelaki as acting president and chief executive officer, effective August 1, 2013.
“We are pleased with the wealth of experience Frank brings to Columbia Power,” said Lee Doney, chair of Columbia Power’s Board of Directors in a press release. “He is well positioned to continue building on the work that has been accomplished to date and move the organization to its future phase.”
In his most recent role as Columbia Power’s chief operating officer, Wszelaki had full operational leadership responsibility for the company, directing the overall day-to-day operations of the organization consistent with its vision, values, corporate objectives and strategic plan.
Bree Seabrook, communications manager, said outgoing CEO Jane Bird has accepted a position overseas.
“She was offered a position with the high commission in London [England],” said Seabrook. “I think it’s a two-year term overseas and so it’s a great opportunity for her.”
Wszelaki’s professional background spans close to 30 years in the electric utility industry. His utility journey has taken him through all aspects of power generation and includes; engineering, plant systems, project management, outage management, maintenance, plant management and executive leadership. During his time at Columbia Power, he has built positive relationships with staff and stakeholders.
As president and chief executive officer, Wszelaki will continue to ensure Columbia Power’s existing hydropower facilities operate well, the Waneta Expansion Project is completed on- schedule and on-budget with a positive safety and environmental record, and the company investigates a path to future hydro projects in the region.
Columbia Power is a Crown corporation wholly owned and controlled by the Province of British Columbia. Columbia Power’s mandate is to manage assets and undertake power project investments as the agent of the Province. For more information, visit www.columbiapower.org.
