FirstEnergy Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

FirstEnergy has 4 executives leading key functions including strategy, human resources, utility operations, and regional operations.

Driven by integrity and operational excellence, FirstEnergy is dedicated to powering communities and delivering reliable energy solutions across its extensive service territories, impacting millions of customers.

Leadership Roles at FirstEnergy

  • President, Chief Executive Officer and Chair of the Board - Brian Tierney
  • President FirstEnergy Utilities - Wade Smith
  • President, Operations (West Virginia/Maryland) - Christian Beam
  • Senior Vice President & Chief Human Resources Officer - Karen McClendon
  • Brian Tierney - President, Chief Executive Officer and Chair of the Board

    Brian Tierney, the President, Chief Executive Officer and Chair of the Board at FirstEnergy, directs the overall strategic vision and corporate governance for the energy provider. Overseeing all major business units, Tierney ensures alignment with the company's core commitments to safety, reliability, and operational excellence. This leadership role involves guiding the company's investor relations and stakeholder engagement, crucial for maintaining its position as one of the nation's largest investor-owned electric systems. Brian Tierney's executive decisions shape the company's market impact across Ohio, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, West Virginia, Maryland, and New York, driving initiatives that support millions of customers. The Chair of the Board's responsibilities include setting board agendas and fostering effective board operations to uphold fiduciary duties and long-term company value. Tierney's focus remains on enhancing operational efficiency and adapting to the evolving energy landscape.

    Wade Smith - President FirstEnergy Utilities

    Wade Smith, the President FirstEnergy Utilities at FirstEnergy, directs the operational performance of the company's core electric distribution businesses. Smith's purview encompasses ensuring the reliable delivery of power to more than 6 million customers across key states, including Ohio, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, West Virginia, Maryland, and New York. This leadership position demands a focus on enhancing grid modernization, optimizing service delivery, and maintaining the highest standards of safety and reliability. Wade Smith's responsibilities include overseeing the strategic planning and execution of initiatives that improve customer experience and operational efficiency within the utility segment. The President of FirstEnergy Utilities plays a pivotal role in managing the day-to-day operations that underpin the company's status as a major energy provider. Smith's strategic direction supports the company's commitment to operational excellence and customer satisfaction.
    Wade Smith

    Christian Beam - President, Operations (West Virginia/Maryland)

    Christian Beam, the President, Operations (West Virginia/Maryland) at FirstEnergy, spearheads the operational execution and strategic development within these specific regional territories. Beam's leadership ensures the seamless functioning of FirstEnergy's electric distribution and transmission infrastructure across West Virginia and Maryland, directly impacting service reliability for customers in these areas. This role involves overseeing local operational teams, managing resource allocation, and driving initiatives that enhance safety and efficiency in alignment with the company's broader objectives. Christian Beam's focus is on optimizing regional performance, addressing local energy needs, and reinforcing FirstEnergy's commitment to its customers and communities. The President of Operations for these regions is instrumental in translating corporate strategy into tangible, on-the-ground results, ensuring consistent service delivery and operational excellence. Beam's oversight is critical for maintaining the integrity of the transmission lines and distribution networks.

    Karen McClendon - Senior Vice President & Chief Human Resources Officer

    Karen McClendon, the Senior Vice President & Chief Human Resources Officer at FirstEnergy, architects the human capital strategy essential for supporting the company's extensive operations. McClendon oversees all aspects of human resources, including talent acquisition, employee development, compensation, and benefits, ensuring a robust workforce capable of delivering on FirstEnergy's mission. This role is critical for fostering a culture of integrity, safety, and operational excellence across the organization's diverse employee base. Karen McClendon's leadership ensures that the company attracts, retains, and develops the talent needed to manage its electric distribution and transmission operations, serving over 6 million customers. By implementing effective HR policies and programs, McClendon supports the company's commitment to its employees and its service territories in Ohio, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, West Virginia, Maryland, and New York. The Chief Human Resources Officer's strategic input is vital for organizational effectiveness and employee engagement.
    Karen McClendon

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding FirstEnergy Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads FirstEnergy?
    FirstEnergy is led by Brian Tierney (President, Chief Executive Officer and Chair of the Board), along with executives such as Wade Smith (President FirstEnergy Utilities) and Christian Beam (President, Operations (West Virginia/Maryland)).
    Who is part of FirstEnergy’s executive team?
    The executive team of FirstEnergy includes leaders such as Brian Tierney (President, Chief Executive Officer and Chair of the Board), Wade Smith (President FirstEnergy Utilities), Christian Beam (President, Operations (West Virginia/Maryland)) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does FirstEnergy have?
    FirstEnergy has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in FirstEnergy’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of FirstEnergy includes roles such as President, Chief Executive Officer and Chair of the Board, President FirstEnergy Utilities, President, Operations (West Virginia/Maryland), Senior Vice President & Chief Human Resources Officer.