Tim Pearson Takes Helm as South Carolina State President for Duke Energy

Tim Pearson Appointed South Carolina State President for Duke Energy

GREENVILLE, S.C. – Duke Energy has formally announced that Tim Pearson will step into the role of South Carolina state president, effective November 1. This move comes as part of a corporate reshuffle following the promotion of his predecessor, Mike Callahan, to senior vice president and treasurer of the company. Callahan’s new role follows the retirement of Karl Newlin.

Transition and Responsibilities

At 42 years old, Pearson will be responsible for managing state and local regulatory and government relations in South Carolina. His work will involve close collaboration with the corporate and regulatory strategy team, focusing on advancing legislative, rate, and regulatory initiatives within the state. Additionally, his team will oversee community relations and infrastructure engagement throughout South Carolina.

“Tim has a unique set of skills that are critical to how we address challenges facing the utility industry in new ways in South Carolina,” said Lynn Good, chair and CEO of Duke Energy. “He is well-positioned to lead the conversation and collaboration with our stakeholders and policymakers to deliver on the state’s needs as we work to build a smarter energy future for the Palmetto State.”

Background of Tim Pearson

Pearson has been a pivotal part of Duke Energy since joining full-time as vice president of government affairs in 2023, building on his previous consulting and advisory roles. As a resident of Columbia, he brings over a decade of experience in state government and policy to his new position.

Prior to joining Duke Energy, Pearson served as an advisor to multiple governors, including working as the general consultant for Henry McMaster’s successful campaigns in 2018 and 2022. He also held the role of chief of staff for former Governor Nikki Haley during her administration and was the executive director of her transition team. His extensive background in South Carolina politics equips him to tackle the challenges ahead.

Mike Callahan’s Achievement and Transition

Mike Callahan, aged 49, will transition back to a financial role within the company after leading Duke Energy’s operations in South Carolina for five years. Before his tenure as state president, he was responsible for investor relations and played a crucial role in ensuring Duke Energy’s smooth financial planning and strategic decision-making processes.

Callahan’s leadership significantly aided the company’s efforts to support communities during the pandemic and effectively lead numerous grassroots initiatives. “I am proud of the many accomplishments Mike and his team have achieved in South Carolina,” stated Julie Janson, executive vice president and CEO for Duke Energy Carolinas.

Succession in Government Affairs

Following Pearson’s promotion, Tigerron “Tiger” Wells, currently the state government affairs director, will take over the position of vice president of government affairs. Wells is a qualified attorney and previously was a partner at the law firm Haynsworth Sinkler Boyd, bringing with him crucial experience in lobbying and legislative strategy.

Wells has played a pivotal role in Duke Energy’s lobbying efforts, handling the company’s interests at the South Carolina State House over the past five years. He will lead a team that includes Heather Shirley Smith, vice president of regulatory and policy, and Rick Jiran, vice president of government and community relations, ensuring a continued focus on regulatory matters and local government relations.

Duke Energy’s Undertaking

Duke Energy, a leading energy holding company, provides electric utility services to 8.4 million customers across various states. The company is on a dedicated path toward achieving a clean energy transition, with goals including net-zero methane emissions from its natural gas operations by 2030 and net-zero carbon emissions from electricity generation by 2050. Investments are being made in electric grid upgrades and cleaner energy solutions, while continuing to engage with the communities it serves.

With these changes, Duke Energy looks forward to shaping a sustainable energy future for South Carolina and enhancing its community engagement throughout the state.