Grant PUD leader to step down in June

Rich Wallen, Grant PUD’s general manager/chief executive officer, has announced his resignation from the utility. The resignation, given to Grant PUD’s Board of Commissioners on May 7, is effective on June 14, the PUD announced the next day. 

With Grant PUD for seven years, Wallen has served the last two and a half as the general manager of the electricity and internet utility that serves all of Grant County. 

“During his time as CEO, Rich oversaw profound changes at Grant PUD,” stated Grant PUD Commission President Tom Flint on the PUD’s website. “Under his leadership, we have become more efficient and fiscally sound. Rich led a strategic re-alignment of the utility which sets the stage for Grant PUD to meet the changes and challenges in the evolving electric utility industry. He has also been a tireless advocate for hydropower in the Northwest, serving as a spokesperson for the industry, plus a board member and trusted advisor with many hydropower advocacy organizations.

“I, and the rest of the commissioners, are incredibly grateful for the energy, vision, and heart that Rich dedicated to our organization for the benefit of our customers. We wish him the absolute best as he moves on to the next stage of his career.”

Wallen is leaving Grant PUD for employment with Chelan PUD as their Chief Operating Officer. 

Flint and the other members of the board plan to begin the work of selecting a replacement for Wallen.  

“We as commissioners will be meeting to begin the process of selecting an Interim CEO while we engage in a thorough selection process to permanently fill the position,” Flint stated. “Rich has built a great team here, and we have every confidence in our staff’s ability to make this a smooth transition for our customers and within the organization.”