Avista Announces New Leadership Appointments to Enhance Growth and Operations

Avista announces new executive appointments to enhance strategic execution and operations. Jason Thackston becomes Senior Vice President of Growth, Energy Policy, and External Relations, while Wayne Manuel is promoted to Senior Vice President of Operations and Technology. Alexis Alexander succeeds Manuel as Vice President, Chief Information Officer/Chief Security Officer. The appointments are part of a planned succession strategy to promote future growth and operational excellence.

Avista Corp. (NYSE: AVA) has announced key leadership changes effective October 1, 2025, as part of its planned succession strategy to enhance operational capabilities and drive future growth. The appointments include Jason Thackston, Wayne Manuel, and Alexis Alexander, who will take on expanded roles to support Avista's strategic vision and operational excellence.

Jason Thackston, currently Senior VP and Chief Strategy Officer, will expand his role to Senior VP of Growth, Energy Policy, and External Relations. This new title reflects his broader responsibilities, which will include overseeing energy policy and external relations, as well as driving company-wide growth initiatives. Thackston's appointment underscores Avista's commitment to strategic execution and external relations.

Wayne Manuel, currently VP and CIO/CSO, has been promoted to Senior VP of Operations and Technology. Reporting directly to CEO Heather Rosentrater, Manuel will oversee energy delivery operations and technology initiatives. His extensive background in Information Technology, Strategy, Human Resources, and other operational areas positions him well for this expanded role.

Alexis Alexander, currently Director of Applications, will succeed Manuel as the VP, CIO/CSO. Reporting to Manuel, Alexander will lead Avista’s information systems and cybersecurity strategy, ensuring continued innovation and resilience across the company’s digital infrastructure. Alexander has held various leadership roles within the company, including Director of Generation Production and Substation Support, and most recently, Director of IT Infrastructure.

Avista's leadership team believes these appointments reflect the company's commitment to strong leadership, operational excellence, and long-term strategic growth. The appointments come as Avista reported Q2 2025 earnings below expectations, with EPS dropping 41.4% to $0.17 due to clean tech investment losses [2]. Despite this, Avista Utilities is projected to meet upper guidance from strong regulatory settlements.

These changes highlight Avista's focus on technology and security integration, as well as its commitment to internal talent development. The appointments indicate a strategic restructuring aimed at enhancing operational capabilities and growth initiatives.

References:
[1] https://www.stocktitan.net/news/AVA/avista-announces-new-executive-eql7d8pcuuaj.html
[2] https://www.ainvest.com/news/avista-2025-q2-earnings-misses-targets-net-income-drops-39-1-2508/