Austin Energy Executive and Leadership Team

Elizabeth Vela, the Deputy Chief Financial Officer at Austin Energy, supports the financial strategy and operational management of the company's fiscal health. Vela assists in overseeing budgeting, financial planning, and analysis, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements and industry best practices. This position involves managing financial reporting, optimizing cash flow, and contributing to investment strategies that support Austin Energy's infrastructure development and service expansion. Elizabeth Vela plays a crucial part in maintaining the financial integrity of the organization, working closely with the Chief Financial Officer to achieve fiscal stability and growth. The Deputy Chief Financial Officer's focus includes risk management and the implementation of financial controls that safeguard company assets and enhance profitability.

Russell Maenius, the Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer at Austin Energy, leads the company's comprehensive financial strategy and management. Maenius oversees all aspects of financial planning, budgeting, accounting, and treasury operations, ensuring the fiscal stability and long-term viability of the organization. This executive position involves managing capital investments, securing financing for major projects, and optimizing financial performance to support Austin Energy's growth and operational needs. Russell Maenius is instrumental in developing financial policies, ensuring regulatory compliance, and providing strategic financial guidance to the executive team and board. The Chief Financial Officer's leadership ensures robust financial controls, drives profitability, and supports the company's mission to deliver reliable and affordable energy services.

Melissa Martin, the Deputy General Manager and Chief Operating Officer at Austin Energy, directs the day-to-day operational activities and service delivery across the organization. Martin oversees the management of power generation, transmission, and distribution systems, ensuring the reliable and efficient provision of electricity to consumers. This critical role involves leading teams responsible for infrastructure maintenance, grid modernization, and emergency response preparedness, directly supporting Austin Energy's commitment to uninterrupted service. Melissa Martin drives operational excellence by implementing best practices in safety, efficiency, and environmental stewardship. The Deputy General Manager and Chief Operating Officer's strategic focus includes optimizing resource allocation and enhancing operational resilience to meet evolving energy demands and regulatory standards.

Marco Espericueta, the Chief Information Officer at Austin Energy, directs the company's technology strategy and digital transformation initiatives. Espericueta oversees the development and implementation of robust IT infrastructure, ensuring the secure and efficient operation of all information systems critical to Austin Energy's service delivery. This leadership role involves managing cybersecurity protocols, data analytics platforms, and enterprise resource planning systems, directly supporting the company's mission to provide reliable electricity. By architecting scalable technology solutions, Marco Espericueta enhances operational efficiency and enables data-driven decision-making across all departments. The Chief Information Officer's purview extends to fostering innovation in technology adoption, aligning IT capabilities with Austin Energy's long-term strategic goals and market demands.

Drusilla Saenz, the Chief of Staff at Austin Energy, provides strategic support and operational oversight to the executive leadership team. Saenz manages key initiatives, facilitates cross-departmental collaboration, and ensures alignment with the company's strategic objectives. This role involves coordinating executive communications, overseeing special projects, and optimizing internal processes to enhance organizational effectiveness. Drusilla Saenz acts as a key liaison between various departments and executive leadership, driving efficiency and ensuring smooth execution of company-wide programs. The Chief of Staff's responsibilities include preparing executive briefings, managing board relations, and implementing strategic plans that support Austin Energy's commitment to reliable energy services and community engagement.