Essential Energy Executive and Leadership Team

September, 2026

Leadership Overview

Essential Energy has 4 executives leading key functions including strategy, financial oversight, organizational operations, and human capital management.

Focused on regional infrastructure reliability, Essential Energy delivers critical electricity network services across New South Wales and southern Queensland while maintaining a commitment to sustainable energy distribution for all customers.

Leadership Roles at Essential Energy

  • Chief Executive Officer - John Cleland
  • Chief Financial Officer - Stacey Sleeman
  • Chief of Staff - Matt Newey
  • Chief People Officer - Amalie Smith
  • John Cleland - Chief Executive Officer

    John Cleland, the Chief Executive Officer at Essential Energy, directs the overarching strategic vision for the electricity network. Overseeing the maintenance and operation of critical infrastructure, the Chief Executive Officer ensures the delivery of essential services to homes and businesses across New South Wales and southern Queensland. This leadership role involves constant collaboration with the Board to align operational goals with government mandates. By prioritizing grid reliability and safety, John Cleland drives the long-term growth of the organization. The Chief Executive Officer manages complex stakeholder relationships to secure the future of regional energy distribution. Through rigorous oversight of capital projects, Cleland guarantees that the network meets evolving consumer demands. This executive position demands a focus on operational excellence and fiscal responsibility to maintain the integrity of the vast electrical grid spanning the Australian landscape.
    John Cleland

    Stacey Sleeman - Chief Financial Officer

    Stacey Sleeman, the Chief Financial Officer at Essential Energy, manages the fiscal health and economic strategy of the electricity network. Overseeing financial planning, reporting, and risk management, the Chief Financial Officer ensures the organization maintains the capital required to build and maintain essential infrastructure. This leadership role involves coordinating with the executive team to optimize resource allocation across New South Wales and southern Queensland. By implementing robust financial controls, Stacey Sleeman drives efficiency and transparency throughout the business. The Chief Financial Officer monitors market trends to protect the financial stability of the government-owned entity. Through precise budgeting and investment analysis, Sleeman supports the expansion of network services. This executive position requires a deep understanding of regulatory requirements and economic conditions to ensure the long-term viability of the energy delivery systems serving regional communities.

    Matt Newey - Chief of Staff

    Matt Newey, the Chief of Staff at Essential Energy, coordinates internal operations and facilitates communication across the executive leadership team. Overseeing the execution of strategic initiatives, the Chief of Staff ensures alignment between departmental goals and the broader mission of maintaining the electricity network. This leadership role involves managing complex projects that span New South Wales and southern Queensland. By streamlining administrative processes, Matt Newey drives organizational agility and improves decision-making speed. The Chief of Staff acts as a primary liaison between the executive office and various business units to resolve operational bottlenecks. Through careful management of corporate priorities, Newey supports the delivery of essential network services. This executive position requires a focus on cross-functional collaboration to ensure that the company meets its performance targets while maintaining high standards of service for all regional customers.

    Amalie Smith - Chief People Officer

    Amalie Smith, the Chief People Officer at Essential Energy, directs the human capital strategy and organizational culture for the electricity network. Overseeing talent acquisition, employee development, and workplace safety, the Chief People Officer ensures the workforce possesses the skills necessary to maintain critical infrastructure across New South Wales and southern Queensland. This leadership role involves fostering an inclusive environment that supports the professional growth of all staff members. By implementing effective performance management systems, Amalie Smith drives employee engagement and operational productivity. The Chief People Officer collaborates with other executives to align workforce capabilities with the evolving needs of the energy sector. Through strategic workforce planning, Smith secures the talent required to sustain long-term service delivery. This executive position demands a focus on building a resilient and skilled team capable of managing the complexities of a large-scale regional utility.
    Amalie Smith

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Essential Energy Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Essential Energy?
    Essential Energy is led by John Cleland (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Stacey Sleeman (Chief Financial Officer) and Matt Newey (Chief of Staff).
    Who is part of Essential Energy’s executive team?
    The executive team of Essential Energy includes leaders such as John Cleland (Chief Executive Officer), Stacey Sleeman (Chief Financial Officer), Matt Newey (Chief of Staff) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Essential Energy have?
    Essential Energy has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Essential Energy’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Essential Energy includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Chief of Staff, Chief People Officer.