Powerlink Queensland Executive and Leadership Team

September, 2026

Leadership Overview

Powerlink Queensland has 4 executives leading key functions including strategy, operational oversight, infrastructure management, and financial planning.

Focused on delivering reliable energy transmission, Powerlink Queensland maintains a commitment to sustainable infrastructure development and grid stability across the Australian energy market.
  • Chief Executive Officer - Paul Simshauser
  • Interim Chief Executive Officer - Darryl Rowell
  • Acting Chief Financial Officer - Leigh Pickering
  • Chief Operating Officer - Simon Bartlett
  • Paul Simshauser - Chief Executive Officer

    Paul Simshauser, the Chief Executive Officer at Powerlink Queensland, directs the overarching strategic vision for the organization. This leadership role involves managing complex electric transmission systems while ensuring long-term grid reliability for the region. By aligning corporate objectives with evolving energy demands, Simshauser drives operational excellence across all departments. The Chief Executive Officer collaborates with the Board to secure capital investments necessary for modernizing aging infrastructure. Paul Simshauser also monitors regulatory compliance to maintain high safety standards throughout the network. Through rigorous analysis of market trends, the Chief Executive Officer optimizes service delivery models to support the transition toward renewable energy sources. This executive leadership ensures the company remains a cornerstone of the Australian energy sector by balancing technical requirements with fiscal responsibility. Ultimately, Simshauser fosters a culture of innovation that strengthens the resilience of the entire transmission grid.
    Paul Simshauser

    Darryl Rowell - Interim Chief Executive Officer

    Darryl Rowell, the Interim Chief Executive Officer at Powerlink Queensland, manages the immediate operational continuity of the transmission business. This role requires maintaining seamless service delivery while navigating the complexities of large-scale energy infrastructure maintenance. Rowell oversees the execution of critical projects that sustain the integrity of the electrical grid. By coordinating with internal stakeholders, the Interim Chief Executive Officer ensures that daily operations align with established safety protocols and performance benchmarks. Darryl Rowell also addresses urgent technical challenges that arise within the transmission network to prevent service disruptions. The Interim Chief Executive Officer provides stability during transitional periods, focusing on the efficient allocation of resources to meet regional energy needs. Through proactive management of field operations and administrative functions, Rowell upholds the company reputation for reliability. This leadership position demands constant vigilance regarding grid performance and the effective management of technical teams across the organization.

    Leigh Pickering - Acting Chief Financial Officer

    Leigh Pickering, the Acting Chief Financial Officer at Powerlink Queensland, manages the financial health and capital allocation strategies for the organization. This role involves overseeing budgeting, financial reporting, and risk management to support the company mission of providing reliable energy services. Pickering directs the fiscal planning required for massive infrastructure investments and long-term asset maintenance. By analyzing economic data, the Acting Chief Financial Officer ensures that the company maintains a strong balance sheet while funding critical grid improvements. Leigh Pickering also collaborates with other executives to align financial goals with operational requirements. The Acting Chief Financial Officer monitors cash flow and investment returns to optimize the use of capital across all business units. Through rigorous financial oversight, Pickering secures the resources necessary for the company to remain competitive in the energy sector. This leadership role demands precision in forecasting and a strategic approach to managing the financial risks associated with large-scale utility operations.

    Simon Bartlett - Chief Operating Officer

    Simon Bartlett, the Chief Operating Officer at Powerlink Queensland, architects the technical framework for the company electric transmission systems. This role involves supervising the maintenance and expansion of high-voltage assets to ensure consistent power delivery. Bartlett manages the engineering teams responsible for grid integrity and system upgrades. By implementing advanced monitoring technologies, the Chief Operating Officer enhances the efficiency of the transmission network. Simon Bartlett also coordinates with external contractors to execute large-scale infrastructure projects on time and within budget. The Chief Operating Officer prioritizes the integration of new energy technologies to support the evolving needs of the Australian power market. Through the oversight of daily technical operations, Bartlett minimizes downtime and maximizes the lifespan of critical equipment. This leadership function requires deep expertise in power systems and a commitment to operational safety. Ultimately, Bartlett ensures that the physical infrastructure remains robust enough to handle increasing energy demands across the region.

    Explore Leadership Teams in Electricity, Oil & Gas

    Who leads Powerlink Queensland?
    Powerlink Queensland is led by Paul Simshauser (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Darryl Rowell (Interim Chief Executive Officer) and Leigh Pickering (Acting Chief Financial Officer).
    Who is part of Powerlink Queensland’s executive team?
    The executive team of Powerlink Queensland includes leaders such as Paul Simshauser (Chief Executive Officer), Darryl Rowell (Interim Chief Executive Officer), Leigh Pickering (Acting Chief Financial Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Powerlink Queensland have?
    Powerlink Queensland has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Powerlink Queensland’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Powerlink Queensland includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Interim Chief Executive Officer, Acting Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer.