EWEB CEO & General Manager Frank Lawson will retire in spring 2026, after a decade in the top leadership position at the utility.
EWEB, Oregon's largest customer-owned electric utility, has launched a nationwide search for Lawson's successor.
Latest News
January 16, 2026: An update on the General Manager recruitment process was presented at EWEB's January 6 Public Board meeting. Commissioners conducted interviews with shortlisted candidates on January 12 and 13.
Following these interviews, the Board will confer to determine whether sufficient information has been gathered to identify a finalist of if a second round of interviews is needed with a reprioritized pool of candidates.
Selection of the successful candidate will take place through a public vote of the Board. A majority vote is requires, and any offer of employment will be contiengent upon successful contract negotiations as well as references and background checks.
Commissioners anticipate making a final decision in early February.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is responsible for hiring the general manager?
EWEB's Board of Commissioners is responsible for recruitment, negotiations and onboarding a new general manager. Support and guidance will be provided by an external recruiting firm and EWEB's Human Resources department.
What is the recruiting timeline?
Commissioners will follow an aggressive schedule to identify a successor, with the goal of allowing some overlap between Lawson and the incoming general manager. Initial candidate search and screening will occur in October and November, with a short list selection by early December. Interviews will take place in December and January with final selection targeted for February.
What is EWEB looking for in a candidate?
EWEB is looking for candidates with deep experience and a commitment to EWEB's values. The general manager will lead the development and implementation of strategic plans to ensure the utility continues to be proactive and responsive to its customers, employees, and the general public and conducts utility business in accordance with legal and regulatory requirements, sound financial management practices, contract terms, policies and objectives established by the Board of Commissioners.
Learn More
- EWEB Newsroom
- August Board Meeting, covering General Manager transition plan
- September 2025 Board memo, covering the recruitment process and the roles, responsibilities, and minimum and preferred qualifications of the General Manager position
- October 2025 Board memo, covering the hiring process (recruitment timeline, stakeholder feedback, and job posting) and standards (compensation range)
- Interview with Frank regarding the transition
- Job Posting
