Evergy announces David Campbell as new chairman of the board
Following the retirement of chairman Mark Ruelle this May, the Kansas and Missouri-based Evergy, Inc. will gain new leadership in the form of current president and CEO David Campbell.
Ruelle decided not to stand for reelection at Evergy’s annual meeting on May 7, 2024, leaving the path open for the board of directors to nominate Campbell.
“Mark has provided outstanding leadership as chairman of our board for the past six years since the merger that created Evergy,” Campbell said. “His vision and experience had a significant positive impact on the company’s success, and he has served as a highly valued partner and mentor. We thank Mark for his more than 30 years of exceptional service and leadership at both Westar and Evergy and congratulate him as he begins his next chapter.”
Ruelle has served as non-executive chairman of the Evergy board since 2018, when Westar Energy, Inc. and Great Plains Energy first merged to form the company. Before that, he was a member of the board, president and CEO of Westar Energy since August 2011. Campbell’s tenure has been shorter, serving as Evergy’s president and CEO since January 2021. Ruelle led the search committee that landed on Campbell as his replacement, though.
“It’s been an honor to serve Evergy and its predecessor companies for more than three decades,” Ruelle said. “Seeking out and making a living in this industry, with this company, was my good fortune. Nothing in a career is so gratifying as to work alongside highly skilled craftsmen and women and dedicated business professionals to provide a service that none of us can imagine living without.”
Evergy will also soon replace its lead independent director role. While the role is currently occupied by Thomas Hyde, he will retire from the board in May at the end of 12 years of service. In his place, long standing board member Anthony Isaac will step into the role.
