Ben Graham has resigned from his position as chair of Manitoba Hydro's board of directors, concluding a two-year tenure leading the provincial Crown corporation.
Leadership Change at Provincial Utility
The resignation was announced publicly on Monday, December 15, 2025. Graham had served as the chair of the board for the publicly-owned electricity and natural gas utility for exactly two years at the time of his departure. No immediate successor was named in the initial announcement.
Manitoba Hydro is a critical component of the province's infrastructure, responsible for generating hydroelectric power and delivering energy services across the region. The utility's operations and leadership are closely watched due to its significant economic and environmental impact.
Context and Potential Implications
The resignation marks a notable shift in the governance of one of Canada's major energy utilities. While the specific reasons for Graham's departure were not detailed in the initial report, such leadership changes often prompt discussions about the future strategic direction of the corporation.
Key areas of focus for the utility's board typically include:
- Major infrastructure projects and capital investments.
- Rate setting and affordability for consumers.
- Relationships with Indigenous communities and environmental stewardship.
- Navigating the transition to a broader renewable energy landscape.
The board of directors is tasked with overseeing the management of the corporation and ensuring it fulfills its mandate to provide reliable, sustainable, and cost-effective energy to Manitobans.
Looking Ahead for Manitoba Hydro
Attention will now turn to the provincial government, which appoints the chair and board members, to name a replacement. The new chair will inherit the responsibility of guiding Manitoba Hydro through ongoing challenges and opportunities in the energy sector.
This leadership transition occurs as utilities across Canada grapple with modernizing grids, integrating new technologies, and meeting ambitious climate targets. The coming appointment will be significant for the utility's employees, its customers, and the province's economic future.
Further details regarding the succession plan and any statements from Ben Graham or the government are anticipated in the days following the resignation announcement.
