Powerlink Queensland Executive and Leadership Team

October, 2026

Leadership Overview

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

Focused on delivering reliable electric transmission systems, Powerlink Queensland drives sustainable energy infrastructure across Australia while maintaining a commitment to operational excellence and long-term grid stability for the entire region.
  • 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. By managing the complex electric transmission systems, the Chief Executive Officer ensures the delivery of reliable energy services across the Queensland region. Simshauser architects long-term growth initiatives while aligning corporate objectives with the evolving demands of the national energy market. This leadership role involves constant collaboration with the Board to optimize infrastructure investments and enhance grid resilience. Paul Simshauser maintains a focus on operational efficiency, driving the company toward sustainable energy solutions that support the broader Australian economy. Through rigorous oversight of high-voltage network assets, the Chief Executive Officer secures the integrity of the transmission grid. Ultimately, Simshauser fosters a culture of safety and innovation, ensuring the organization remains a leader in the energy sector while meeting critical performance benchmarks for stakeholders and customers alike.
    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 electric transmission business. Overseeing the transition of key strategic projects, the Interim Chief Executive Officer maintains stability across all transmission services. Rowell directs the executive team to ensure alignment with existing regulatory frameworks and safety standards. This role involves navigating complex market dynamics to sustain the reliability of the Queensland energy grid. Darryl Rowell executes critical decision-making processes that support the ongoing maintenance of high-voltage infrastructure. By coordinating with internal departments, the Interim Chief Executive Officer facilitates seamless project delivery and resource allocation. Rowell prioritizes the optimization of transmission assets to meet the growing energy needs of the region. Through this focused leadership, the organization continues to provide essential services while preparing for future strategic shifts, ensuring that the company remains a cornerstone of the Australian energy landscape.

    Leigh Pickering - Acting Chief Financial Officer

    Leigh Pickering, the Acting Chief Financial Officer at Powerlink Queensland, directs the financial strategy and capital allocation for the electric transmission business. Overseeing the fiscal health of the organization, the Acting Chief Financial Officer manages budgeting, reporting, and investment planning to support the maintenance of critical energy infrastructure. Pickering architects robust financial models that ensure the long-term viability of transmission projects across the Queensland region. This leadership role involves collaborating with the executive team to align capital expenditure with strategic growth objectives. Leigh Pickering executes rigorous financial controls to optimize resource utilization and enhance shareholder value. By monitoring market trends and regulatory impacts, the Acting Chief Financial Officer provides the necessary insights to navigate the complex energy sector. Pickering ensures that all financial operations remain transparent and compliant with industry standards. Through this disciplined approach to fiscal management, the organization maintains the financial strength required to deliver reliable energy services to the Australian public.

    Simon Bartlett - Chief Operating Officer

    Simon Bartlett, the Chief Operating Officer at Powerlink Queensland, directs the daily technical operations of the electric transmission network. Overseeing the maintenance and expansion of high-voltage infrastructure, the Chief Operating Officer ensures the seamless flow of electricity across the Queensland region. Bartlett architects scalable maintenance programs that minimize downtime and maximize grid reliability. This leadership role involves managing large-scale engineering projects and field operations to support the company's core mission. Simon Bartlett coordinates with technical teams to implement advanced monitoring systems that enhance the safety and efficiency of the transmission assets. By optimizing operational workflows, the Chief Operating Officer drives significant improvements in service delivery and asset longevity. Bartlett maintains a rigorous focus on technical standards, ensuring that all infrastructure projects meet the highest industry requirements. Through this dedicated operational oversight, the organization sustains its position as a vital provider of energy services, supporting the broader infrastructure needs of the Australian market.

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    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.