Senior Director In Required United States

For visionary leaders who are passionate about shaping the future of energy delivery and driving the transition to a cleaner, more resilient grid, this executive role offers the opportunity to make a lasting impact. Xcel Energy is seeking a Director of Electric Distribution Planning to provide strategic leadership in the development and implementation of Integrated System Plans, regulatory strategies, and investment delivery across multiple operating companies. If you have deep experience in electric distribution systems, a track record of navigating complex regulatory environments, and the ability to lead long term planning for decarbonization and grid modernization, this position allows you to shape the infrastructure that powers millions of customers across eight states.

Company Overview

Xcel Energy is a leading combination electricity and natural gas energy company, serving 3.4 million electricity customers and 1.9 million natural gas customers across the Western and Midwestern United States. With a commitment to providing clean, safe, and reliable energy, the company is at the forefront of the transition to a sustainable energy future. Xcel Energy is recognized for its industry leadership in environmental emissions reductions and its dedication to innovation, customer service, and community engagement.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, recommend, and implement business strategies, annual and long term plans, and risk assessments that effectively meet evolving business needs and regulatory requirements.

• Lead strategic planning for environmental decarbonization and technical implementation, incorporating operating area differences to ensure consistent and effective execution.

• Drive and lead Integrated System Plans across all operating companies, including forecasting for load, distributed energy resources, electric vehicle adoption, and other customer electrification efforts.

• Direct contractors and vendors supporting Hosting Capacity studies for both distributed energy resources and electric vehicles, ensuring accurate and timely analysis.

• Spearhead the development of systematic regulatory plans to gain approval and recover costs, serving as an expert witness in regulatory proceedings as needed.

• Lead the Asset Health Strategy group, driving solutions to ensure ongoing reliability of the electric distribution system while coordinating with internal teams to maintain compliance with external regulatory requirements.

• Direct the Investment Delivery group to ensure excellent customer service in a cost effective manner through capital budget development and effective recovery of new infrastructure investments.

Qualifications

A bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering is required, along with ten years of industry experience within electric delivery. System planning experience is strongly preferred. Candidates must have five years of management experience, demonstrating the ability to drive major initiatives and lead large, cross functional teams. Significant communication and influence skills are essential, as is demonstrated knowledge of codes and regulations including NESC, OSHA, PUC, land use, and franchise requirements. Experience with commission policies and procedures across multiple jurisdictions is necessary. Knowledge of management systems, safety protocols, and labor agreements is essential. Experience with regulatory filings is preferred.

Benefits and Perks

This executive position offers a competitive base pay range of $170,700 to $242,366 per year, with additional compensation through the Annual Incentive Program and Long Term Incentive opportunities. The comprehensive benefits package includes medical, dental, and vision insurance, life insurance, health savings account options, and dependent care reimbursement. Retirement benefits include both a pension plan and a 401k plan. Paid time off, holidays, volunteer paid time off, and parental leave support work life balance. Additional perks include tuition reimbursement, transit programs, fitness center reimbursement, and an employee recognition program. This role offers the opportunity to lead transformative initiatives at one of the nation’s premier energy companies.

How to Apply

If you are ready to bring your strategic vision and technical expertise to a company that is leading the way in clean energy and grid modernization, we encourage you to apply. Please submit your application through the Xcel Energy careers portal before the deadline of April 14, 2026. Join a team where your leadership will shape the future of energy delivery for millions of customers and contribute to a more sustainable tomorrow. We look forward to learning how your experience can help us build the grid of the future.