California Energy Commission Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

California Energy Commission has 5 executives leading key functions including strategy, finance, and operations.

Dedicated to reducing energy costs and curtailing greenhouse gas emissions, California Energy Commission ensures a safe, resilient, and reliable energy supply across the state.

Leadership Roles at California Energy Commission

  • Chief Financial Officer - Harsh Thakar
  • Chief of Staff - Robert Chun
  • Chief of Staff & Andrew Mcallister Commissioner - Bryan Early
  • Chief of Staff & Office of Noemi Gallardo Commissioner - Erik Stokes
  • Chief of Staff To Commissioner Nancy Skinner - Jana Ganion
  • Harsh Thakar - Chief Financial Officer

    Harsh Thakar, the Chief Financial Officer at California Energy Commission, manages the agency's fiscal operations and financial strategy. Thakar is responsible for budgeting, financial planning, and ensuring the efficient allocation of resources to support the commission's mandate of reducing energy costs and greenhouse gas emissions. This role involves rigorous financial oversight, risk management, and the development of financial models to support long-term energy policy. The Chief Financial Officer plays a pivotal part in maintaining the financial health of the organization, enabling investments in critical energy infrastructure and research. Thakar's expertise guides financial decision-making, ensuring compliance with state regulations and maximizing the impact of public funds. By optimizing financial performance, Harsh Thakar directly contributes to the commission's ability to deliver a safe, resilient, and reliable energy supply for California.

    Robert Chun - Chief of Staff

    Robert Chun, the Chief of Staff at California Energy Commission, directs strategic initiatives and operational alignment across key departments. Chun oversees the execution of the agency's core mission: reducing energy costs, curtailing greenhouse gas emissions, and ensuring a safe, resilient, and reliable energy supply. This leadership position involves coordinating efforts between various divisions to achieve policy objectives and enhance the state's energy infrastructure. Chun's role is critical in translating the commission's vision into actionable plans, ensuring seamless workflow and effective resource allocation. The Chief of Staff drives internal process improvements and fosters collaboration among teams to meet ambitious energy goals. By managing critical projects and stakeholder communications, Robert Chun ensures the commission operates with maximum efficiency and impact, directly supporting California's commitment to a sustainable energy future.

    Bryan Early - Chief of Staff & Andrew Mcallister Commissioner

    Bryan Early, the Chief of Staff & Andrew Mcallister Commissioner at California Energy Commission, drives policy development and operational oversight. Early's dual role encompasses strategic leadership and direct commissioner responsibilities, focusing on advancing the agency's goals of reducing energy costs, curtailing greenhouse gas emissions, and ensuring a safe, resilient, and reliable energy supply. This position requires a deep understanding of energy markets and regulatory frameworks to guide the commission's initiatives. The Chief of Staff & Andrew Mcallister Commissioner spearheads critical projects, fosters inter-agency collaboration, and ensures the effective implementation of energy policies across the state. Bryan Early's leadership ensures that the commission's operations are aligned with its mission, promoting innovation and sustainability in California's energy sector. This executive's work directly impacts the state's energy future and environmental objectives.

    Erik Stokes - Chief of Staff & Office of Noemi Gallardo Commissioner

    Erik Stokes, the Chief of Staff & Office of Noemi Gallardo Commissioner at California Energy Commission, leads strategic planning and operational execution. Stokes's responsibilities span both administrative oversight and direct commissioner duties, focusing on the commission's core objectives: reducing energy costs, curtailing greenhouse gas emissions, and ensuring a safe, resilient, and reliable energy supply. This role demands a comprehensive grasp of energy policy and its practical application to drive agency performance. The Chief of Staff & Office of Noemi Gallardo Commissioner directs key programs, enhances interdepartmental synergy, and oversees the deployment of energy solutions statewide. Erik Stokes's strategic direction ensures the commission's activities effectively support its mission, championing advancements in energy technology and environmental stewardship. This executive's contributions are vital to California's energy security and sustainability goals.

    Jana Ganion - Chief of Staff To Commissioner Nancy Skinner

    Jana Ganion, the Chief of Staff To Commissioner Nancy Skinner at California Energy Commission, provides critical support and strategic direction for Commissioner Skinner's initiatives. Ganion's role focuses on advancing the commission's mission to reduce energy costs, curtail greenhouse gas emissions, and ensure a safe, resilient, and reliable energy supply. This involves managing policy development, coordinating stakeholder engagement, and overseeing the implementation of key energy programs. The Chief of Staff To Commissioner Nancy Skinner ensures that the commissioner's objectives are met efficiently and effectively, bridging operational tasks with high-level strategic planning. Ganion's expertise is essential in navigating complex energy landscapes and driving progress on critical environmental and economic fronts. By facilitating the commissioner's work, Jana Ganion directly contributes to California's leadership in sustainable energy solutions and policy innovation.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding California Energy Commission Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads California Energy Commission?
    California Energy Commission is led by Harsh Thakar (Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Robert Chun (Chief of Staff) and Bryan Early (Chief of Staff & Andrew Mcallister Commissioner).
    Who is part of California Energy Commission’s executive team?
    The executive team of California Energy Commission includes leaders such as Harsh Thakar (Chief Financial Officer), Robert Chun (Chief of Staff), Bryan Early (Chief of Staff & Andrew Mcallister Commissioner) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does California Energy Commission have?
    California Energy Commission has 5 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in California Energy Commission’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of California Energy Commission includes roles such as Chief Financial Officer, Chief of Staff, Chief of Staff & Andrew Mcallister Commissioner, Chief of Staff & Office of Noemi Gallardo Commissioner, Chief of Staff To Commissioner Nancy Skinner.