EWEB CEO & General Manager Frank Lawson will retire in spring 2026, after a decade in the top leadership position at the utility.
Latest News
February 4, 2026: Following a nationwide search, EWEB's elected Board of Commissioners voted unanimously on to select John Hairston, the current administrator of the Bonneville Power Administration (BPA), as EWEB’s next general manager.
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 is provided by an external recruiting firm and EWEB's Human Resources department.
What was the recruiting process?
In August 2025, after General Manager Frank Lawson announced his planned retirement, EWEB’s publicly elected Board of Commissioners retained an executive recruiter to lead the search through the fall and winter. Eighteen people applied.
After conducting screening interviews, the recruiting firm submitted 12 candidates for the Board's consideration. The Board chose seven candidates from this pool for initial interviews, then selected two finalists for additional interviews.
What did EWEB look for in a candidate?
EWEB looked 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.
Previous News
- 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
