PowerNet Chief Executive Reflects on 13 Years of Leadership and Community Connection

Jason Franklin, PowerNet’s Chief Executive has stepped down today after 13 years at the helm, leaving behind a legacy of progress, resilience, and dedication to the Southland and Otago communities.

Reflecting on his time with the company, Mr Franklin said one of his biggest highlights was PowerNet’s transformation in workplace safety.

“Our industry is inherently hazardous, so ensuring that work is done safely is critical. Achieving this consistently requires the right culture, leadership, systems, and processes all working together. The entire PowerNet team has put in a huge effort, and they should be proud of where we are today.”

Strengthening the capability and capacity of the PowerNet team to ensure it was future-proofed, had been a key achievement for Mr Franklin, who had seen the team at PowerNet grow from about 60 staff when he started in the role, to approximately 300 today.

“With the significant electrification planned over the next few decades, PowerNet has a strong, well-equipped team ready to meet the challenges and opportunities ahead,” he said.

“The next five years will be a period of significant change, with major upgrades and expansions planned to meet customer demand as we decarbonise and shift more energy use to electricity. PowerNet is in a prime position to help shape that future, which is an exciting opportunity.”

When asked what he would miss most about PowerNet, his response was immediate:
“The people…we have an incredible team of over 300 people across Southland and Otago. At the end of the day, people make an organisation, and that’s certainly true for PowerNet.

“I want to thank everyone I’ve worked with—both within PowerNet and across the wider community for their support over the years.”

Of course, he’ll miss Southland, too; “The region consistently punches above its weight, contributing more to New Zealand than you’d expect given its size. There’s a highly connected business community, which makes getting things done and driving progress much easier than in many other regions. I’ll definitely miss that.

“Southland has some great opportunities ahead, and I’ll be watching with interest as the region continues to grow and thrive.”

The Power Company Limited Group Chairman Pete Moynihan said Mr Franklin’s contribution to PowerNet over the past 13 years had been “fantastic”.

“His strong leadership, commercial acumen, and focus on safety leaves a strong legacy. TPCL Group has enjoyed working with Jason and we know he’ll make a great impact in his new role at Powerco we wish him all the very best for the future,” Mr Moynihan said.

PowerNet’s General Manager of People, Safety and Communications David Stevens, would step into the role of Interim Chief Executive while the company undertook recruitment for a permanent replacement.