Memphis Light, Gas & Water finds itself looking for a new leader. In a press release Friday, the public utility announced that president J.T. Young would be resigning his post, effective October 14th.
Young is leaving his current position to return to his hometown of Pensacola, Florida, where he will take up a position at Florida Power & Light.
“J.T. has led MLGW with integrity, humility, and strength, with examples being the process which culminated recently in a plan to strengthen the system to reduce major outages from severe storms and the RFP process for our power supply,” said Mayor Jim Strickland. “For all these reasons and many more, I’d like to thank J.T. for his service as the President of MLGW and to the citizens of Memphis. I know he and his family will do well back home in Pensacola.”
Young joined MLGW in March 2018, and served as MLGW’s 11th president. He has helmed the utility through several crises over the last couple of years, including 2021’s water boil advisory, infrastructure problems, and severe outages caused by ice storms.
Throughout his tenure, the organization has also weighed the option of splitting with long-time electricity provider Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA). Recently, Young recommended that MLGW remain with TVA, while environmental groups are asking for more time on its power supply decision.
“J.T. Young has thoughtfully led Memphis Light, Gas and Water through difficult times with a solid understanding of the crucial role MLGW plays in our economic growth,” said Greater Memphis Chamber president & CEO Beverly Robertson. “The Greater Memphis Chamber is grateful for his leadership as a member of our Board of Directors and our Chairman’s Circle and for his willingness to partner with the Chamber on critical issues affecting our businesses.”
As of publication, it is unclear who will lead MLGW following Young’s departure.