Power Leadership

NRG’s CEO, Mauricio Gutierrez, is committed to the customer and he discusses why Boards should also commit.

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In your experience, what are the main factors for a CEO, like you, to have a 100% effective Board of Directors?

First and foremost, accountability and a shared passion for the mission of the organization are foundational traits. Many candidates will have the skills or specialties necessary for board leadership, but what sets boards apart is a demonstrated commitment to governing in a way that creates long-term value for all of the company’s stakeholders.

What is the benefit of having more diverse and inclusive Boards?

To me, a homogenous board can be a missed opportunity. I recently read that if the US Latino population were considered as an independent economy, it would rank as the 8th largest economy in the world. So as we become a business centered on understanding and catering to our customers, diversity and inclusion throughout the organization is critical.

We recognize that the various perspectives and backgrounds that stem from a diverse and inclusive company lead to better decision-making and outcomes. Collectively, we aspire to create a companywide culture that fosters inclusion, inspires innovation, encourages respect, and promotes success for everyone as we create a better energy future.

What would be a “dream Board” for you as CEO? What capacities, what kind of support, what kind of relationships?

We’ve recently upended the traditional “Independent Power Producer” business model to place focus on our customers, both large and small. As our board evolves over time, it would be beneficial to see our directors begin to reflect our customer-base from a diversity standpoint and a realignment on skill sets.