Craig Francis has been named Genex Power Limited’s new Chief Executive Officer (CEO), effective 1 September 2023.
Francis, who is now Genex’s Chief Financial Officer (CFO), will succeed James Harding, who will step down as CEO on 31 August 2023, after five years in the position. Following his retirement, Harding will continue to advise Genex to facilitate a seamless transition period. Genex has begun the hunt for a replacement CFO, and an announcement on the appointment is likely in the coming months.
According to Genex, Francis is a seasoned energy leader. In 2021, he became Genex’s CFO after leading the portfolio’s commercial development since 2017. Francis has been a key member of Genex’s executive team and has helped mature the company’s portfolio. Francis worked in corporate finance at Cantor Fitzgerald Europe in the UK, assisting energy and natural resources customers.
“We are very pleased to appoint Craig to the role of CEO of Genex. Since joining the leadership team, he has applied his deep financial acumen, intricate knowledge of the energy sector and collaborative leadership style to successfully execute multiple project finance programs, including for our flagship Kidston Pumped Storage Hydro Project, as well as playing a key role in the development of the Company’s broader strategy,” Genex Chairman Dr Ralph Craven said.
In 2016, James Harding became Executive General Manager of Genex and CEO in May 2018.
“I would also like to acknowledge James’ significant contribution to Genex’s development over the last seven years, including five as CEO. James has led our transition from an early-stage development company to a significant Australian renewables player with material revenue generation, an expanded portfolio of renewable assets and what is soon to be the first pumped storage hydro facility in Australia in over 40 years. He has been instrumental in setting and implementing our strategy to play a leading role in Australia’s transition to a clean energy future,” Dr Craven stated.
James Harding, outgoing CEO of Genex said, “As Genex approaches energisation of our Bouldercombe Battery Project this quarter and our Kidston Pumped Storage Hydro Project next year, it is entering the next phase of maturity and growth. We have a strong team in place across all parts of the business, so the time is right for me to take a step back. I’ve truly enjoyed leading Genex and working with a team of professionals who are passionate about Australia’s clean energy transition. I have every confidence Genex will continue to grow and deliver strong shareholder returns under Craig’s leadership. I look forward to continuing to support Genex as a consultant and shareholder during what I am confident will be a bright future for the Company.”
