Public Utility Commission Of Texas Names New Executive Director

Headquartered in Austin, the Public Utility Commission of Texas is charged with protecting utility customers, fostering market competition, and promoting high-quality telephone, water and electric utility infrastructure.

Austin, TX – In a public meeting today with commissioners Marquez & D’Andrea, PUC Chair DeAnn Walker announced the hiring of John Paul Urban as Executive Director to replace the recently resigned Brian Lloyd.

 “Based on his past tenure at the PUC, John Paul has an excellent grasp of the agency’s mission and a sterling reputation in both the capitol and our regulated industries,” said Walker. “We are confident in his ability to lead the agency as it fulfills its oversight role.”

In addition to Urban’s hiring, Walker also announced new titles for Thomas Gleeson (Chief Operating Officer) and Stephen Journeay (Commission Counselor, Office of Policy and Docket Management.) As part of the realignment, Journeay will now report directly to the commissioners instead of the executive director.

Rounding out the new executive team, Walker introduced communications director, Andrew Barlow.

In addition to serving as the PUC’s Director of Government Relations from 2011-2014, Urban previously served as Chief of Staff for Rep. Wayne Smith and, most recently, a director for NRG Energy. A graduate of the University of Texas, the Baytown native and his wife, Lauren, make their home in Austin.

Gleeson has served the commission since 2008 in roles of increasing responsibility. He is a graduate of Southwestern University and holds a Master of Public Administration degree from the Bush School of Government and Public Service.

Journeay, a licensed attorney and professional engineer with experience in a variety of state agencies and public companies, has been with the PUC since 1996.

Barlow previously served in the communications offices of Texas Governor Rick Perry and Lt. Governor David Dewhurst. The Navy veteran and Notre Dame graduate lives in Austin with his wife, Trina.

Headquartered in Austin, the Public Utility Commission of Texas is charged with protecting utility customers, fostering market competition, and promoting high-quality telephone, water and electric utility infrastructure. To learn more and access all PUC press releases, visit www.puc.state.tx.us.