Southwest Power Pool Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Southwest Power Pool has 5 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, and human capital.

Driven by reliability, Southwest Power Pool is dedicated to ensuring dependable power supplies, robust transmission infrastructure, and competitive wholesale electricity pricing across its service region.

Leadership Roles at Southwest Power Pool

  • President & Chief Executive Officer - Lanny Nickell
  • Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer - Antoine Lucas
  • President - Butch Reeves
  • Chief of Staff - Emily Pennel
  • Vice President, Human Capital & Chief People Officer - Kelly Carney
  • Lanny Nickell - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Lanny Nickell, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Southwest Power Pool, directs the overall strategic vision and operational execution for the regional transmission organization. Nickell guides the entity's mandate from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, ensuring the reliable supply of electricity and the maintenance of adequate transmission infrastructure. This leadership role involves fostering competitive wholesale electricity prices across the SPP footprint. By aligning departmental objectives with the organization's core mission, Lanny Nickell drives initiatives that enhance grid stability and market efficiency. The President & Chief Executive Officer's purview encompasses all facets of SPP's business, from regulatory compliance to long-term infrastructure planning, directly impacting the energy security of millions.
    Lanny Nickell

    Antoine Lucas - Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer

    Antoine Lucas, the Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer at Southwest Power Pool, oversees the day-to-day operational activities critical to maintaining grid reliability and transmission integrity. Lucas directs the management of the extensive transmission infrastructure, ensuring its adequacy to meet regional energy demands. This executive leadership position is central to SPP's mandate of providing reliable electricity supplies and fostering competitive wholesale market prices. By optimizing operational efficiencies and managing the complex network of power delivery, Antoine Lucas directly impacts the seamless functioning of the energy grid. The Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer's responsibilities include driving innovation in grid management and ensuring compliance with all regulatory requirements.
    Antoine Lucas

    Butch Reeves - President

    Butch Reeves, the President at Southwest Power Pool, leads specific strategic initiatives and operational segments crucial for the organization's success in the energy sector. Reeves focuses on driving forward key projects that support the mandate of ensuring reliable power supplies and adequate transmission infrastructure. This leadership position involves guiding teams to achieve operational excellence and contribute to competitive wholesale electricity prices. By championing specific programs and fostering collaboration, Butch Reeves enhances the overall effectiveness of Southwest Power Pool's operations. The President's role is vital in navigating the evolving energy landscape and ensuring the continued stability of the regional power grid.

    Emily Pennel - Chief of Staff

    Emily Pennel, the Chief of Staff at Southwest Power Pool, provides direct support and strategic counsel to the executive leadership team, facilitating the execution of key organizational objectives. Pennel manages critical cross-functional projects and ensures seamless communication between departments, aligning operational efforts with the company's overarching mission. This role involves streamlining internal processes and enhancing the efficiency of executive decision-making. By coordinating strategic initiatives and driving special projects, Emily Pennel contributes to the reliable supply of power and the maintenance of adequate transmission infrastructure. The Chief of Staff's influence extends to optimizing operational workflows and supporting the competitive wholesale electricity pricing mandate of Southwest Power Pool.

    Kelly Carney - Vice President, Human Capital & Chief People Officer

    Kelly Carney, the Vice President, Human Capital & Chief People Officer at Southwest Power Pool, directs all aspects of human capital management, fostering a skilled and engaged workforce essential for operational success. Carney oversees talent acquisition, development, and retention strategies, ensuring the organization possesses the expertise needed to manage reliable power supplies and transmission infrastructure. This role is pivotal in cultivating a culture that supports SPP's mission of providing competitive wholesale electricity prices. By prioritizing employee well-being and professional growth, Kelly Carney strengthens the human element that underpins the company's critical functions. The Vice President, Human Capital & Chief People Officer's leadership ensures that Southwest Power Pool's most valuable asset—its people—are aligned with the organization's strategic goals.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Southwest Power Pool Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Southwest Power Pool?
    Southwest Power Pool is led by Lanny Nickell (President & Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Antoine Lucas (Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer) and Butch Reeves (President).
    Who is part of Southwest Power Pool’s executive team?
    The executive team of Southwest Power Pool includes leaders such as Lanny Nickell (President & Chief Executive Officer), Antoine Lucas (Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer), Butch Reeves (President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Southwest Power Pool have?
    Southwest Power Pool has 5 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Southwest Power Pool’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Southwest Power Pool includes roles such as President & Chief Executive Officer, Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer, President, Chief of Staff, Vice President, Human Capital & Chief People Officer.