Austin Energy Executive and Leadership Team

Elizabeth Vela, the Deputy Chief Financial Officer at Austin Energy, supports the financial strategy and fiscal operations of the company. Vela collaborates with the Chief Financial Officer to manage budgets, financial planning, and reporting, ensuring the economic health of the organization. This role is critical in overseeing financial controls and risk management, safeguarding Austin Energy's assets and investments in providing electricity and electric services. By analyzing financial data and trends, Elizabeth Vela contributes to informed decision-making regarding resource allocation and capital expenditures. The Deputy Chief Financial Officer's focus includes optimizing financial processes and supporting initiatives that drive sustainable growth and operational efficiency for the company.

Russell Maenius, the Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer at Austin Energy, directs the company's comprehensive financial strategy and management. Maenius oversees all fiscal operations, including budgeting, forecasting, accounting, and financial reporting, ensuring the economic stability and growth of the organization. This executive leadership position is pivotal in managing capital investments, optimizing financial performance, and maintaining strong relationships with financial institutions. By guiding financial planning, Russell Maenius ensures Austin Energy has the resources to deliver reliable electricity and electric services effectively. The Chief Financial Officer's responsibilities encompass risk mitigation, compliance, and driving financial initiatives that support the company's long-term objectives and market leadership.

Melissa Martin, the Deputy General Manager and Chief Operating Officer at Austin Energy, spearheads the company's operational execution and service delivery. Martin oversees the day-to-day management of electric services and maintenance, ensuring the reliable and efficient provision of power to consumers. This critical role involves leading teams responsible for infrastructure management, grid operations, and customer support, directly impacting service quality and operational excellence. By optimizing operational workflows and implementing best practices, Melissa Martin enhances the company's ability to meet demand and manage resources effectively. The Chief Operating Officer's purview includes driving efficiency, safety, and innovation across all operational facets, supporting Austin Energy's mission to power the community.

Drusilla Saenz, the Chief of Staff at Austin Energy, directs strategic initiatives and operational alignment across the organization. Saenz ensures executive priorities translate into actionable plans, facilitating seamless communication between leadership and departmental teams. This role involves managing key projects and driving efficiency in administrative functions, directly supporting the company's mission to provide reliable electricity and electric services. Overseeing critical internal processes, Drusilla Saenz enhances the effectiveness of executive decision-making and resource allocation. The Chief of Staff's purview extends to optimizing workflows and fostering a cohesive operational environment, ensuring all departments function in concert to meet Austin Energy's service commitments and strategic objectives.

Marco Espericueta, the Chief Information Officer at Austin Energy, architects and executes the company's technology strategy. Espericueta oversees the development and maintenance of robust IT infrastructure, ensuring the secure and efficient delivery of electricity and electric services. This leadership position involves managing all aspects of information systems, from cybersecurity protocols to data analytics, crucial for operational continuity and innovation. By driving digital transformation initiatives, Marco Espericueta enhances customer experience and operational performance. The Chief Information Officer's responsibilities include leading teams in software development, network management, and technology support, all vital to Austin Energy's commitment to providing reliable energy solutions and maintaining its market position.