Seattle City Light Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

Seattle City Light has 4 executives leading key functions including operations, finance, human resources, and strategic initiatives.

Driven by a commitment to affordable and reliable power, Seattle City Light provides essential energy services to nearly one million residents, upholding a legacy of environmental responsibility and community ownership as a leading public utility.

Leadership Roles at Seattle City Light

  • Chief Financial Officer - Kirsty Grainger
  • Chief Operating Officer - Michael Haynes
  • Chief of Staff - Leigh Barreca
  • Chief Human Resources Officer - DaVonna Johnson
  • Kirsty Grainger - Chief Financial Officer

    Kirsty Grainger, the Chief Financial Officer at Seattle City Light, directs all financial planning, accounting, and reporting functions for the municipal utility. Grainger manages the organization's fiscal health, ensuring the sustainable provision of affordable electric power to its extensive customer base. This critical position involves overseeing budgeting, treasury operations, and investment strategies, aligning financial resources with the utility's commitment to environmental responsibility and operational reliability. Kirsty Grainger's leadership ensures robust financial controls and transparent reporting, vital for a not-for-profit entity serving nearly one million residents. The Chief Financial Officer's responsibilities include developing long-term financial forecasts and managing relationships with financial institutions and regulatory bodies. Grainger's expertise is fundamental to maintaining the utility's strong financial standing and supporting its infrastructure development across a broad service area.
    Kirsty Grainger

    Michael Haynes - Chief Operating Officer

    Michael Haynes, the Chief Operating Officer at Seattle City Light, directs all operational facets of the utility's extensive power distribution network. Haynes oversees the daily management of infrastructure, ensuring the reliable and efficient delivery of electricity across a 131.31 square mile service area encompassing Seattle and surrounding communities. This leadership role involves optimizing grid performance, managing maintenance schedules for hydroelectric facilities, and implementing advanced technologies to enhance service stability. By focusing on operational excellence, Michael Haynes supports the utility's mission to provide affordable and environmentally responsible power. The Chief Operating Officer's responsibilities extend to coordinating emergency response protocols and ensuring compliance with all regulatory standards governing public utilities. Haynes's strategic oversight guarantees the seamless integration of new energy sources and the continuous improvement of service delivery to approximately 961,000 residents.

    Leigh Barreca - Chief of Staff

    Leigh Barreca, the Chief of Staff at Seattle City Light, acts as a central liaison, driving strategic alignment and operational efficiency across the organization. Barreca manages key initiatives, facilitates communication between departments, and supports the executive leadership team in executing the utility's core mission. This role involves coordinating cross-functional projects, preparing executive briefings, and ensuring that strategic objectives are translated into actionable plans. Leigh Barreca's influence extends to enhancing internal processes and fostering a culture of collaboration, directly supporting Seattle City Light's commitment to providing affordable, reliable, and environmentally responsible electric power. The Chief of Staff's duties include advising on policy matters and representing the utility in various stakeholder engagements. Barreca's strategic support is critical for navigating complex operational challenges and advancing the utility's long-term goals within the public energy sector.

    DaVonna Johnson - Chief Human Resources Officer

    DaVonna Johnson, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Seattle City Light, leads all aspects of workforce management and organizational development. Johnson is responsible for attracting, retaining, and developing a skilled team dedicated to delivering reliable and environmentally responsible electric power. This executive function encompasses talent acquisition, compensation and benefits, employee relations, and fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace culture across the utility's operational footprint. DaVonna Johnson's strategic direction ensures that human capital aligns with Seattle City Light's mission to serve its 493,663 metered customers effectively. The Chief Human Resources Officer plays a pivotal role in shaping employee engagement and supporting the professional growth of staff involved in the complex operations of a major public utility. Johnson's oversight is essential for maintaining a high-performing workforce committed to community service and operational excellence.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Seattle City Light Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Seattle City Light?
    Seattle City Light is led by Kirsty Grainger (Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Michael Haynes (Chief Operating Officer) and Leigh Barreca (Chief of Staff).
    Who is part of Seattle City Light’s executive team?
    The executive team of Seattle City Light includes leaders such as Kirsty Grainger (Chief Financial Officer), Michael Haynes (Chief Operating Officer), Leigh Barreca (Chief of Staff) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Seattle City Light have?
    Seattle City Light has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Seattle City Light’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Seattle City Light includes roles such as Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer, Chief of Staff, Chief Human Resources Officer.