Tag: National Grid

Brian R. McNeill: Strategic CFO and Board Leader Driving Financial and Operational Transformation in the Global Energy Sector

Brian McNeill is a strategic CFO and accomplished board leader with a proven track record of transforming financial performance, strengthening governance, and driving operational excellence across the international energy sector. With more than 30 years of experience at National Grid, he has led complex business units through large-scale transformation, delivering measurable results in return on equity, cash recovery, and business growth. Recognized for his ability to align financial strategy with operational execution, Brian has played a pivotal role in accelerating the clean energy transition, integrating emerging technologies, and building diverse, high-performing teams. His expertise spans financial planning, regulatory strategy, board governance, and organizational performance, making him a trusted advisor and respected leader in navigating the evolving challenges of the global energy industry.

William J. Akley: Retired Utility Executive and Industry Leader

William J. Akley is a distinguished retired utility executive with more than 40 years of experience in the natural gas industry, most recently serving as President of Gas Operations at Eversource Energy. In this role, he was responsible for the safe and reliable delivery of natural gas to approximately 887,000 customers across Connecticut and Massachusetts. Beginning his career as a field engineer at Brooklyn Union Gas, Akley quickly advanced through the ranks at KeySpan Energy and National Grid, where he held pivotal leadership roles overseeing field operations and construction. A passionate advocate for safety, he has chaired the Safety Committee for the American Gas Association and currently serves on the board of the Northeast Gas Association. With an MBA from Adelphi University and a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical and Industrial Engineering from Clarkson University, Akley combines deep industry knowledge with strategic insight, positioning him as a leader dedicated to operational excellence and the advancement of the energy sector.