Hydro One's New Interim Chair: A Beacon of Regulatory Expertise

In the ever-evolving landscape of corporate governance, the appointment of Susan Wolburgh Jenah as the Interim Chair of the Board of Directors at Hydro One Limited marks a significant turning point. With over 30 years of regulatory and financial services industry experience, Jenah brings a wealth of knowledge and strategic acumen to a company that has been navigating a complex regulatory environment and significant organizational changes.



Jenah's career is a testament to her ability to lead through change. As the founding President and CEO of the Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada (IIROC), she successfully merged the Investment Dealers Association of Canada (IDA) and Market Regulation Services Inc. This merger not only streamlined regulatory processes but also set a new standard for investor protection in Canada. Her leadership during this period showcased her ability to navigate complex regulatory landscapes and implement effective compliance strategies.

Her extensive experience in regulatory compliance and governance is further underscored by her roles at the Ontario Securities Commission, where she held numerous executive positions, including Vice-Chair and Head of International Affairs. This background positions her to significantly influence Hydro One's regulatory compliance and governance practices, ensuring that the company adheres to all relevant regulations and standards. This could lead to fewer regulatory issues and potential fines, thereby improving the company's operational efficiency.

Jenah's appointment comes at a critical time for Hydro One. The company is currently undergoing significant transformations, including the development of essential infrastructure and the expansion of its transmission portfolio to support electrification initiatives in Ontario. Her leadership in managing large-scale organizational changes, as demonstrated during her tenure at IIROC, will be invaluable in guiding Hydro One through these transformations.

Moreover, Jenah's extensive network and influence within the financial and regulatory sectors can be leveraged to foster strategic partnerships and collaborations that benefit Hydro One. Her membership on the Board of Directors of the Laurentian Bank of Canada, the Aequitas NEO Exchange, and the Board of Governors of the U.S. Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) highlights her deep connections and influence in the industry. These connections can help Hydro One navigate market challenges and opportunities more effectively, ultimately enhancing its market standing.

The potential impacts of Jenah's leadership on Hydro One's operational efficiency and market standing are multifaceted. Improved regulatory compliance and governance practices could lead to increased investor confidence, as seen in the positive reception of her appointment to Hydro One's Board of Directors. Tim Hodgson, Board Chair of Hydro One, stated, "Susan is a deeply respected leader with a wealth of business experience. Her strong regulatory and governance background are a welcome addition as Hydro One executes on its renewed strategy to keep an unwavering focus on safety, customer service, efficiency, sustainability and growth." This highlights the expectation that her leadership will contribute to the company's overall efficiency and market standing.

Furthermore, her experience in capital markets and financial services industry knowledge could help Hydro One navigate market challenges and opportunities more effectively. For example, her role as a member of the Board of Directors of the Institute of Corporate Directors, which provides thought leadership through various publications and is a unified voice for directors, indicates her commitment to staying updated with industry trends and best practices. This could translate into more informed decision-making and strategic planning for Hydro One, ultimately enhancing its market standing.

In conclusion, Susan Wolburgh Jenah's appointment as the Interim Chair of the Board of Directors at Hydro One Limited is a strategic move that brings a wealth of regulatory and governance expertise to the company. Her leadership is likely to positively influence Hydro One's regulatory compliance and governance practices, leading to improved operational efficiency and a stronger market standing. As Hydro One continues to navigate the complexities of the regulatory landscape and organizational changes, Jenah's experience and expertise will be invaluable in guiding the company towards a sustainable and successful future.