Essential Energy Executive and Leadership Team

October, 2026

Leadership Overview

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

Committed to regional infrastructure excellence, Essential Energy delivers reliable electricity network services across New South Wales and southern Queensland while maintaining critical grid stability for diverse communities.

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 engagement with the Board to align operational goals with government mandates. By prioritizing grid reliability and safety, John Cleland drives the long-term sustainability of the network. The Chief Executive Officer manages complex stakeholder relationships to facilitate regional growth and energy security. Through rigorous oversight of capital projects, Cleland maintains the integrity of the electrical grid. Ultimately, the Chief Executive Officer secures the operational future of the company by balancing technical requirements with public service obligations, ensuring consistent performance across the entire service territory.
    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 efficient allocation of resources across New South Wales and southern Queensland. This leadership role involves coordinating with the Board to maintain fiscal transparency and regulatory compliance. By optimizing capital expenditure, Stacey Sleeman drives the financial stability required for large-scale infrastructure maintenance. The Chief Financial Officer monitors market trends to inform investment decisions regarding grid modernization. Through precise budgetary control, Sleeman supports the operational objectives of the company. Ultimately, the Chief Financial Officer provides the economic framework necessary for the delivery of essential network services, ensuring that financial performance aligns with the broader mission of providing reliable energy to 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 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 efficiency and cross-functional collaboration. The Chief of Staff supports the Chief Executive Officer in managing high-priority tasks and board-level reporting. Through the implementation of effective management systems, Newey enhances the operational agility of the company. Ultimately, the Chief of Staff maintains the focus of the leadership team on critical infrastructure objectives, ensuring that the daily operations of the network remain consistent with the long-term goals of the organization.

    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, workforce development, and employee engagement, the Chief People Officer ensures the company maintains a skilled workforce capable of managing infrastructure across New South Wales and southern Queensland. This leadership role involves fostering a safe and inclusive environment that supports the technical demands of the energy sector. By implementing comprehensive training programs, Amalie Smith drives the professional growth of the staff. The Chief People Officer collaborates with other executives to align workforce capabilities with the evolving needs of the grid. Through the development of robust internal policies, Smith promotes high performance and operational excellence. Ultimately, the Chief People Officer secures the human resources necessary to sustain the delivery of essential network services to the public.
    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.