Tim Pearson Appointed New State President for Duke Energy in South Carolina
GREENVILLE, S.C. โ Duke Energy has officially announced that Tim Pearson will take over as the South Carolina state president effective November 1, 2023. This announcement follows the promotion of Mike Callahan to senior vice president and treasurer of the company.
Pearson, 42, will succeed Callahan after he has served as state president for the past five years. In his new role, Pearson will be responsible for managing state and local regulatory and government relations in South Carolina. He will collaborate closely with the corporate and regulatory strategy team to promote legislative, rate, and regulatory initiatives throughout the state.
“Tim has a unique set of skills that are critical to how we address challenges facing the utility industry in new ways in South Carolina,” said Lynn Good, chair and CEO of Duke Energy. Pearsonโs close engagement with stakeholders and policy makers will be pivotal as the company strives to develop a more intelligent energy infrastructure for the state.
Background and Experience
Tim Pearsonโs journey with Duke Energy began as an advisor and consultant before he officially joined the team full time in 2023. Previously, he served as vice president of government affairs, where he played an essential role in influencing energy policy in South Carolina. His extensive background in government and policy spans over a decade, particularly within the state.
Before joining Duke Energy, Pearson served as an advisor to various governors, including roles such as chief of staff for Nikki Haley during her governance. He also worked as a senior communications advisor for Mark Sanford, further broadening his expertise in governmental affairs.
Transitioning Leadership
As Mike Callahan transitions to a financial role within Duke Energy, he leaves behind a wealth of accomplishments. Over the last five years, he has guided the companyโs efforts in South Carolina, including support for communities during the pandemic. Under his leadership, Duke Energy engaged with numerous local organizations to enhance community relations, especially during storm restoration efforts.
“I am proud of the many accomplishments Mike and his team have achieved in South Carolina,” commented Julie Janson, executive vice president and CEO for Duke Energy Carolinas.
New Roles in Government Affairs
Following Pearson’s promotion, Tigerron โTigerโ Wells will step into the role of vice president of government affairs. Tiger, who has served as the state government affairs director, brings a wealth of experience as a South Carolina lawyer and former partner at Haynsworth Sinkler Boyd law firm. He has a strong background in lobbying and has been instrumental in the companyโs relations at the state level.
Additionally, Heather Shirley Smith and Rick Jiran will continue in their respective roles focusing on regulatory and community relations. Smith often deals with regulatory matters, while Jiran engages with local governments and infrastructure initiatives.
Duke Energy’s Commitment to the Future
Duke Energy, based in Charlotte, N.C., is one of Americaโs leading energy companies. The utility serves approximately 8.4 million customers across multiple states, including South Carolina. The company is committed to a significant clean energy transition, aiming for net-zero methane emissions from its natural gas operations by 2030 and net-zero carbon emissions from electricity generation by 2050.
Duke Energy continues to invest in major upgrades to the electric grid, focusing on cleaner energy sources, including renewables and better energy storage solutions.
As Tim Pearson steps into his new role, he is expected to navigate the complex landscape of energy policy, working alongside his team to ensure that Duke Energy meets the needs of South Carolinaโs energy consumers while advancing its clean energy initiatives.
