Golden Valley Electric Association’s (GVEA) board of directors announces the retirement of CEO, John Burns, effective June 7, 2024.
"On behalf of the board of directors, I want to express our sincerest appreciation to John for his dedication, leadership and many contributions to GVEA during his tenure," said Tom DeLong, GVEA board Chair. "We are grateful for John’s leadership and unwavering commitment to our members, employees and the communities GVEA serves.”
Since 2016, John has been an instrumental and effective leader, guiding GVEA through significant achievements and challenges; first as GVEA’s General Counsel and as CEO for the last four years.
“I am incredibly appreciative of my time with GVEA and immensely grateful to have had the opportunity to serve GVEA, its members and employees,” said Burns. “And while I have thoroughly enjoyed every facet of my job as CEO, what I have most enjoyed and been most impressed by, is the dedication, passion and hard work of GVEA’s employees. They are committed to serving the best interests of GVEA’s members and are the reason for GVEA’s success. I am extremely proud to have been part of this great organization.”
“The board is also appreciative of the fact that several months ago John shared with us his intention to retire in June and as a result the board and John had the opportunity to pursue a deliberative succession planning process,” said DeLong. Pending approval of a formal resolution by the board of directors at its May meeting, GVEA’s Chief Operating Officer, Travis Million, will succeed John Burns as GVEA’s next CEO. “With over a dozen years of experience in the electric utility industry, knowledge of the Railbelt electric system and a proven record of leadership as CEO of Copper Valley Electric Association prior to coming to GVEA, Travis is exceptionally qualified and well-prepared to lead GVEA going forward,” said DeLong.
"I am honored and humbled to have been chosen to lead Golden Valley as its next CEO," said Million. "I am deeply committed to building upon the strong foundation established by John Burns and working collaboratively with GVEA’s incredible employees to continue delivering exceptional service to our members."
The board of directors is confident that Travis’ leadership will ensure a smooth transition as GVEA continues to focus on serving members, advancing cost-saving initiatives and working toward transformative change along the Railbelt.
GVEA looks forward to welcoming Travis Million into his new roll as CEO and we are incredibly grateful and appreciative to John Burns for his years of service to GVEA.