CenterPoint Energy Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

CenterPoint Energy has 9 executives leading key functions including technology, finance, human resources, operations, regulatory affairs, and communications.

Driven by a commitment to reliable energy delivery, CenterPoint Energy focuses on optimizing its electric and natural gas operations to serve customers across the United States, ensuring efficient and sustainable energy solutions.

Leadership Roles at CenterPoint Energy

  • Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer - Christopher Foster
  • Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer - Gary Whitlock
  • President Vectren Fuels - Beck Randy
  • Group President - Stephen Schaeffer
  • Vice President & Chief Technology Officer - Bradley Krol
  • Executive Vice President & Chief Human Resources Officer - Lynne Harkel-Rumford
  • Senior Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer - Bertha Villatoro
  • Senior Vice President and Chief Communications Officer - Keith Stephens
  • Executive VP, Regulatory Services & Government Affairs - Jason Ryan
  • Christopher Foster - Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer

    Christopher Foster, the Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer at CenterPoint Energy, manages the company's financial operations and strategic fiscal planning. This executive oversees all financial reporting, treasury functions, investor relations, and capital allocation strategies. Foster's responsibilities are crucial for maintaining the financial health and stability of the organization, particularly in managing the significant capital investments required for utility infrastructure. The Chief Financial Officer plays a key part in securing funding for operational expansion and asset optimization across the Electric and Natural Gas segments. By analyzing market trends and economic conditions, Christopher Foster guides the company's financial direction, ensuring alignment with long-term growth objectives and regulatory requirements. Foster's financial acumen supports CenterPoint Energy's commitment to delivering value to stakeholders.

    Gary Whitlock - Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer

    Gary Whitlock, the Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer at CenterPoint Energy, directs the company's comprehensive financial strategy and oversight. This executive is responsible for managing the fiscal integrity of the organization, including financial planning, budgeting, and risk management across both the Electric and Natural Gas divisions. Whitlock's role involves ensuring robust financial controls and optimizing capital structure to support ongoing operations and future growth initiatives. The Chief Financial Officer collaborates closely with the board and other senior leaders to drive financial performance and shareholder value. By providing critical financial insights, Gary Whitlock supports strategic decision-making, enabling CenterPoint Energy to navigate complex market dynamics and regulatory environments effectively. Whitlock's leadership ensures financial resilience.

    Beck Randy - President Vectren Fuels

    Beck Randy, the President Vectren Fuels at CenterPoint Energy, directs the strategic operations and business development for the Vectren Fuels segment. This leadership role involves overseeing all aspects of natural gas sales, transportation, and distribution services provided to residential, commercial, and industrial customers. Randy's focus is on optimizing the delivery network and ensuring reliable energy supply across key service territories. The President Vectren Fuels collaborates with internal teams and external partners to enhance customer service and expand market reach. By driving operational excellence, Beck Randy ensures the efficient and safe provision of natural gas, supporting CenterPoint Energy's commitment to meeting customer energy needs. Randy's leadership is vital for the Vectren Fuels division's performance.

    Stephen Schaeffer - Group President

    Stephen Schaeffer, the Group President at CenterPoint Energy, oversees a portfolio of critical business operations within the company. This executive's responsibilities encompass driving strategic initiatives and ensuring operational alignment across various divisions, including the Electric and Natural Gas segments. Schaeffer plays a key role in enhancing business performance and achieving organizational objectives. The Group President works closely with other senior leaders to identify opportunities for growth, efficiency improvements, and market expansion. By providing strategic direction and oversight, Stephen Schaeffer contributes significantly to CenterPoint Energy's overall success and its mission to deliver reliable energy services. Schaeffer's leadership ensures cohesive operational execution.

    Bradley Krol - Vice President & Chief Technology Officer

    Bradley Krol, the Vice President & Chief Technology Officer at CenterPoint Energy, directs the company's technological strategy and infrastructure. Overseeing all aspects of IT operations, Krol ensures the seamless integration of advanced technologies across both the Electric and Natural Gas segments. This leadership involves driving innovation in areas such as grid modernization, data analytics, and cybersecurity to enhance operational efficiency and customer service. Krol's focus extends to optimizing asset performance through digital solutions, supporting the company's mission to provide reliable energy. The Chief Technology Officer collaborates with other executive leaders to align technology initiatives with broader business objectives, ensuring CenterPoint Energy maintains a competitive edge in the evolving energy landscape. Bradley Krol's role is critical in future-proofing the company's technological capabilities.

    Lynne Harkel-Rumford - Executive Vice President & Chief Human Resources Officer

    Lynne Harkel-Rumford, the Executive Vice President & Chief Human Resources Officer at CenterPoint Energy, leads the company's human capital strategy and organizational development. This executive oversees all aspects of human resources, including talent acquisition, employee relations, compensation and benefits, and diversity and inclusion initiatives. Harkel-Rumford's focus is on cultivating a high-performing workforce that supports CenterPoint Energy's operational goals in the Electric and Natural Gas sectors. The Chief Human Resources Officer drives initiatives to foster a positive and productive work environment, ensuring the company attracts and retains top talent. By aligning HR strategies with business objectives, Lynne Harkel-Rumford plays a vital role in employee engagement and organizational effectiveness. Harkel-Rumford's leadership ensures a skilled and motivated team.
    Lynne Harkel-Rumford

    Bertha Villatoro - Senior Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer

    Bertha Villatoro, the Senior Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer at CenterPoint Energy, spearheads the company's human resources functions and talent management strategies. This executive directs efforts in workforce planning, employee development, and HR policy implementation across the organization. Villatoro's responsibilities are integral to supporting the operational needs of the Electric and Natural Gas segments by ensuring a robust and engaged employee base. The Chief Human Resources Officer focuses on creating a culture of continuous improvement and employee well-being, crucial for retaining expertise within the energy sector. By championing HR best practices, Bertha Villatoro contributes significantly to organizational effectiveness and employee satisfaction. Villatoro's strategic HR leadership underpins company success.

    Keith Stephens - Senior Vice President and Chief Communications Officer

    Keith Stephens, the Senior Vice President and Chief Communications Officer at CenterPoint Energy, directs the company's comprehensive communication strategies and public relations efforts. This executive oversees all internal and external communications, ensuring consistent messaging across various platforms to stakeholders, employees, and the public. Stephens' role is vital in shaping CenterPoint Energy's corporate reputation and enhancing stakeholder engagement. The Chief Communications Officer manages media relations, corporate branding, and crisis communications, supporting the company's mission to provide reliable energy services. By fostering clear and transparent communication, Keith Stephens contributes to building trust and understanding with the communities CenterPoint Energy serves. Stephens' strategic communication leadership strengthens brand perception.
    Keith Stephens

    Jason Ryan - Executive VP, Regulatory Services & Government Affairs

    Jason Ryan, the Executive VP, Regulatory Services & Government Affairs at CenterPoint Energy, leads the company's engagement with regulatory bodies and government entities. This executive is responsible for developing and executing strategies that ensure compliance with all applicable regulations and foster positive relationships with policymakers. Ryan's role is critical in navigating the complex regulatory landscape affecting the Electric and Natural Gas industries. The Executive VP, Regulatory Services & Government Affairs advocates for the company's interests, ensuring that operational and strategic plans align with regulatory requirements and governmental objectives. By managing these crucial external relationships, Jason Ryan supports CenterPoint Energy's ability to operate effectively and serve its customers reliably. Ryan's expertise guides regulatory strategy.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding CenterPoint Energy Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads CenterPoint Energy?
    CenterPoint Energy is led by Christopher Foster (Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Gary Whitlock (Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer) and Beck Randy (President Vectren Fuels).
    Who is part of CenterPoint Energy’s executive team?
    The executive team of CenterPoint Energy includes leaders such as Christopher Foster (Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer), Gary Whitlock (Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer), Beck Randy (President Vectren Fuels) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does CenterPoint Energy have?
    CenterPoint Energy has 9 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in CenterPoint Energy’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of CenterPoint Energy includes roles such as Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer, Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer, President Vectren Fuels, Group President, Vice President & Chief Technology Officer.