Essential Energy Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

Essential Energy has 4 executives leading key functions including strategy, finance, operations, and human resources.

Driven by a commitment to reliable service, Essential Energy operates as a critical electricity network, building, maintaining, and delivering essential services to communities across New South Wales and southern Queensland, underpinning economic activity and daily life.

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 strategy and operational framework for the company's electricity network services. Overseeing the delivery of essential network services across New South Wales and southern Queensland, Cleland ensures the robust building, operation, and maintenance of infrastructure critical to homes and businesses. This leadership role involves aligning corporate objectives with regulatory requirements and stakeholder expectations, driving efficiency and reliability across all facets of the network. By focusing on sustainable growth and service excellence, John Cleland champions the company's mission to provide dependable energy solutions, directly impacting the economic vitality and daily lives of the communities served. The Chief Executive Officer's purview extends to fostering innovation in network management and ensuring the long-term viability of Essential Energy's operations.

    Stacey Sleeman - Chief Financial Officer

    Stacey Sleeman, the Chief Financial Officer at Essential Energy, manages all financial operations and strategic fiscal planning for the government-owned electricity network. Sleeman oversees budgeting, financial reporting, and capital allocation, ensuring the company's financial health and sustainability across New South Wales and southern Queensland. This critical position involves managing financial risks, optimizing investment strategies for infrastructure development, and ensuring compliance with all financial regulations. By providing expert financial guidance, Stacey Sleeman supports the operational integrity and growth objectives of Essential Energy, directly contributing to the reliable delivery of network services. The Chief Financial Officer's responsibilities include driving financial performance, securing funding for essential projects, and maintaining strong relationships with financial institutions and government stakeholders.

    Matt Newey - Chief of Staff

    Matt Newey, the Chief of Staff at Essential Energy, provides strategic support and operational coordination across the executive leadership team. Newey facilitates the execution of key initiatives, ensuring alignment between departmental objectives and the company's overall mission of delivering essential network services across New South Wales and southern Queensland. This role involves managing cross-functional projects, optimizing internal processes, and enhancing communication channels between different divisions of the electricity network. By streamlining operations and driving strategic priorities, Matt Newey enables the Chief Executive Officer and other executives to focus on core business functions. The Chief of Staff's contributions are vital for maintaining operational efficiency and supporting the company's commitment to reliable infrastructure development and maintenance.

    Amalie Smith - Chief People Officer

    Amalie Smith, the Chief People Officer at Essential Energy, leads all human capital strategies and organizational development initiatives for the electricity network. Smith oversees talent acquisition, employee engagement, and workforce planning, ensuring a skilled and motivated team is in place to operate and maintain essential network services across New South Wales and southern Queensland. This position is crucial for fostering a positive and productive work environment, managing employee relations, and developing programs that support professional growth and well-being. By championing people-centric policies, Amalie Smith strengthens the company's ability to deliver reliable energy solutions and attract top talent. The Chief People Officer's focus on human resources management directly supports the operational excellence and long-term success of Essential Energy.
    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.