Southwest Power Pool Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

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

Driven by a commitment to reliable energy, Southwest Power Pool ensures dependable power supplies, robust transmission infrastructure, and competitive wholesale electricity pricing across its service territory.

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 organization. This leadership role involves guiding the company's mission to ensure reliable power supplies, maintain adequate transmission infrastructure, and foster competitive wholesale electricity prices. Nickell oversees the integration of evolving energy technologies and market dynamics, ensuring SPP remains at the forefront of the energy sector. By aligning departmental objectives with corporate goals, Lanny Nickell drives initiatives that enhance grid stability and promote sustainable energy solutions. The President & Chief Executive Officer's purview extends to stakeholder relations, regulatory compliance, and long-term business planning, solidifying SPP's position as a critical regional transmission organization.
    Lanny Nickell

    Antoine Lucas - Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer

    Antoine Lucas, the Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer at Southwest Power Pool, manages the day-to-day operational activities critical to maintaining reliable electricity transmission and wholesale market functions. This executive oversees the engineering, grid operations, and market services departments, ensuring the seamless integration of power generation and distribution across the SPP footprint. Lucas drives initiatives focused on enhancing grid reliability, optimizing transmission capacity, and responding effectively to dynamic energy demands. By implementing robust operational protocols and fostering technological advancements, Antoine Lucas ensures SPP meets its mandate for adequate transmission infrastructure and competitive pricing. The Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer's leadership is central to the efficient functioning of the regional energy market.
    Antoine Lucas

    Butch Reeves - President

    Butch Reeves, the President at Southwest Power Pool, leads specific strategic initiatives and operational segments within the broader organizational framework. This executive role involves driving key projects and programs that support SPP's core mandate of ensuring reliable power supplies and adequate transmission infrastructure. Reeves focuses on enhancing operational efficiencies and fostering collaborative relationships with stakeholders across the energy landscape. By overseeing critical business functions, Butch Reeves contributes to the organization's ability to maintain competitive wholesale electricity prices and adapt to evolving market demands. The President's leadership is instrumental in executing strategic plans and achieving operational excellence across designated areas of responsibility.

    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, particularly the President & Chief Executive Officer. This position involves coordinating cross-functional initiatives, managing key projects, and ensuring efficient communication across all levels of the organization. Pennel facilitates the implementation of strategic priorities, monitors progress on critical objectives, and helps to streamline operational workflows. By acting as a central point of contact for high-level decision-making processes, Emily Pennel enhances organizational agility and effectiveness. The Chief of Staff's responsibilities include preparing executive briefings, managing board communications, and driving special projects that advance SPP's mission of reliable energy delivery and market competitiveness.

    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 resources and organizational development. This leadership position focuses on cultivating a high-performing workforce, fostering a positive corporate culture, and ensuring the attraction and retention of top talent essential for SPP's mission. Carney oversees talent acquisition, employee engagement, compensation and benefits, and professional development programs. By aligning human capital strategies with the company's operational and strategic objectives, Kelly Carney supports the organization's ability to deliver reliable energy and maintain competitive wholesale electricity prices. The Vice President, Human Capital & Chief People Officer's efforts are crucial for building a skilled and motivated team capable of navigating the complexities of the energy sector.

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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.