1. Consumers Energy announces leadership changes for better reliability and service. 2. Norm Kapala and Steve Champine take on new leadership roles. 3. Kapala has extensive experience in electric and gas operations. 4. Champine focuses on advancing net zero methane goals. 5. Consumers Energy serves 6.8 million residents in Michigan.
The leadership changes aim to enhance operational efficiency, potentially increasing market confidence. Historical shifts in leadership often correlate with better company performance.
Leadership changes directly impact operational strategies, crucial for energy providers. This announcement could signal a positive trajectory for CMS Energy's operational stability.
The immediate effect of leadership changes can bolster operational effectiveness and stakeholder trust. Expedited improvements can be seen in quarterly performance.
JACKSON, Mich., Sept. 25, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Consumers Energy today announced leadership changes to strengthen reliability and service for Michigan customers. Effective October 1, Norm Kapala will serve as vice president of grid operations restoration and work management and Steve Champine will serve as vice president of gas operations.
"I'm pleased to share we are bolstering our leadership in both gas and electric with these two experienced, proven leaders who will continue our commitment to serve Michigan with reliable and dependable energy," said Tonya Berry, executive vice president and chief operating officer.
Kapala joined Consumers Energy in 2008 and has held leadership roles across both electric and gas operations. He began his career as an engineer in generation operations and advanced through a series of leadership roles including vice president of generation operations. Most recently, he served as vice president of gas operations before accepting the leadership role in electric distribution. Kapala earned a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering from Michigan Technological University and a master's degree in manufacturing management from Kettering University. He also served in the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve and Navy Reserve.
"Norm's strong and steady leadership and enterprise-wide experience will ensure our entire team is prepared, safe and focused on serving and restoring customers in all conditions," said Tonya Berry.
Champine currently serves as senior executive director of gas operations overseeing gas transmission, storage, compression and construction. He has over two decades of experience in the energy industry both in gas and electric operations, starting at the Karn Generating Station where he held multiple operational roles with increasing responsibility. He also held leadership positions in gas and electric distribution. Steve holds a bachelor's degree in welding engineering technology from Ferris State University and a Master's of Business Administration from Northwood University.
"Steve's influential leadership has been critical in advancing our net zero methane goals, while strengthening unions partnerships and redefining our gas strategy," said Tonya Berry.
Consumers Energy is Michigan's largest energy provider, providing natural gas and/or electricity to 6.8 million of the state's 10 million residents in all 68 Lower Peninsula counties.
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SOURCE CMS Energy