VALLEY FORGE, PA — PJM Interconnection has announced that Manu Asthana, President and CEO, will step down from his role at the end of 2025. Asthana, who has led the organization since 2020, will transition to the role of senior advisor to the PJM Board through June 2026, ensuring a smooth transfer of responsibilities.
The PJM Board expressed deep appreciation for Asthana’s contributions during his tenure. “The PJM Board is grateful to Manu for his strong leadership during a time of tremendous change in the electricity industry,” said Board Chair Mark Takahashi. Takahashi noted Asthana’s pivotal role in addressing challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic, advancing market reforms, enhancing the interconnection process, and strengthening risk management. Under his leadership, PJM maintained grid reliability through various extreme weather events.
Asthana also earned recognition as a vocal advocate for grid reliability, helping draw national attention to the critical challenges of meeting growing electricity demand.
To secure his successor, the PJM Board has formed a CEO Search Committee and enlisted Korn Ferry, a global executive search firm. The Board plans to solicit input from PJM members and stakeholders, with the selection process expected to conclude later this year. Takahashi emphasized that the Board is considering both internal and external candidates, supported by a strong internal leadership pipeline.
Reflecting on his time at PJM, Asthana noted the privilege of leading a team committed to reliability for 67 million people in the region. “My five-plus years at the helm of PJM have been some of the most fulfilling of my career,” he said. Asthana cited personal reasons for his departure, stating, “The time has now come for my wife and me to move back to be closer to our family and friends in Texas.”
Asthana will remain in his current role through the end of the year to assist with the leadership transition. With solid governance and extensive planning, PJM Interconnection is well-positioned to continue its mission of ensuring dependable electricity service across its service area.
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