DTE Energy Names New State Government Affairs Director
DTE Energy has named Rodney Cole to the position of director, State Government Affairs, leading the company’s policy and advocacy efforts in Lansing, Mich. In his new role, Cole will lead DTE’s Lansing office and will continue strengthening relationships with Michigan’s public sector leaders to create and implement policy that benefits DTE’s customers throughout the state.
Cole most recently led DTE’s Wayne County Regional Relations team, where he served as the primary contact between DTE and local municipalities – including the City of Detroit ̶ and community partners. Cole replaces Jim Padgett, who will retire in September after serving 20 years in a leadership role with DTE’s regulatory and government affairs organizations.
“Rodney’s strong leadership abilities will be crucial as DTE continues to engage in the implementation of the 2016 energy policy legislation and works to develop new generation to meet our customers’ needs,” said Renze Hoeksema, vice president, Corporate and Government Affairs for DTE Energy. “Rodney’s natural ability to build strong, authentic relationships and his experience leading change make him a perfect fit for this role, and I am excited to see the impact he’ll have in Lansing.”
Cole joined DTE Energy in 2006, working in Human Resources and supporting the company’s gas utility and non-regulated gas businesses, electric distribution operations and Corporate Services. Previously, he served as an HR consultant with Capital H Group, providing client-focused recruiting services.
Cole received his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Michigan State University, and currently serves on the boards of City Connect Detroit, Don Bosco Hall, Black Caucus Foundation of Michigan, Booker T. Washington Business Association, Teen Hype and the Wayne State University Press Board of Visitors.
DTE Energy will name Cole’s replacement at a later date.
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