The Future Focused CXO is the podcast for C-level executives aiming to scale their organizations, lead through transformative challenges, and stay ahead in adopting cutting-edge technologies like AI. Each episode explores actionable leadership strategies, insights on managing rapid organizational change, and real-world examples from top executives tackling the complexities of modern business operations.
In this episode, we interviewed Chris McConnachie, the CFO of National Grid in New York, to discuss the critical challenges and opportunities in balancing sustainability, affordability, and modernizing the energy grid. Chris shares insights from his extensive experience in the utility sector and offers valuable perspectives on navigating the clean energy transition.
Key takeaways from this episode:
Tune in to learn how utility leaders like Chris are shaping the future of energy infrastructure while addressing pressing sustainability goals.
As the energy sector undergoes a transformation, utility providers like National Grid are faced with the challenge of modernizing infrastructure while staying committed to sustainability and meeting the growing demands of customers. Chris McConnachie, CFO of National Grid New York, sat down with us on the podcast to discuss how the company is navigating these challenges. From balancing affordability with clean energy goals to enhancing customer experiences, Chris shared valuable insights on how National Grid is shaping the future of energy. In this blog post, we break down the key takeaways from our conversation, offering valuable lessons for leaders and professionals in the energy industry.
When it comes to utility services, reliability is everything. For National Grid, the unpredictability of weather and natural disasters presents a constant challenge. Chris shared how the company has made storm preparedness and disaster management core to their operations.
“We understand that our reputation hinges on how we respond to the last storm,” said Chris.
National Grid has made it a priority to ensure that their employees are not just familiar with crisis protocols but are fully trained in real-time storm response. This includes assigning specific roles to employees across departments, from technical teams to customer service, ensuring a collective, well-coordinated effort during extreme weather events.
But it’s not just about responding to crises—National Grid’s proactive strategy includes mobilizing crews ahead of storms. By anticipating the severity of incoming weather, the company ensures they have the right personnel and resources in place to restore power as quickly as possible, minimizing disruption for their customers.
One of the most challenging aspects of Chris’s role as CFO is balancing the push for a cleaner, greener energy grid with the need to keep electricity affordable for all customers. As a utility provider, National Grid is tasked with advancing sustainability goals while maintaining a financially viable business model.
A prime example of this challenge is the ongoing debate over undergrounding the electric network. While underground cables can significantly reduce fire risks—a critical issue in areas prone to wildfires—they come at a high cost, nearly five times that of above-ground alternatives.
For Chris, the solution is finding a balance between long-term sustainability and the cost burden on customers.
“We want to make investments that are aligned with our net-zero goals, but we also have to be mindful of what our customers can afford,” he explained.
That balance often involves tough decisions and collaboration with regulators to ensure that investments are targeted and effective, minimizing costs while maximizing environmental benefits.
The energy transition to renewables is a central part of National Grid’s strategy, but Chris acknowledged that the road to a clean energy future is filled with challenges. One of the major hurdles is the long-term commitment required to achieve net-zero goals, which must remain steadfast despite changing political landscapes.
Another significant challenge is workforce development. As the utility industry shifts from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources, it requires a workforce skilled in newer technologies and systems. Chris stressed that this transition must also account for legacy infrastructure, which was built over decades and needs to be adapted to support renewable energy solutions.
But with challenges come opportunities. National Grid is addressing this by supporting energy efficiency programs that reduce overall demand and accelerate electrification to build a network that supports renewable sources like offshore wind. The company is also working on decarbonizing its gas network by advocating for renewable natural gas (RNG) and hydrogen, providing an environmentally-friendly solution without abandoning existing gas infrastructure.
As the energy sector evolves, so too do customer expectations. Chris shared how National Grid is leveraging technology to enhance the customer experience, especially when it comes to energy usage and sustainability.
For example, the company uses smart meters and data analytics to provide customers with real-time insights into their energy consumption.
“We want customers to make informed decisions about their energy use,” said Chris.
By giving them a clearer picture of their energy habits, National Grid is helping customers reduce consumption, lower bills, and make more sustainable choices.
Chris also highlighted how the company uses technology to improve transparency in billing. By clearly explaining the value customers are getting for their payments, National Grid builds trust and keeps customer satisfaction high, even during service disruptions.
For those hoping to follow in Chris’s footsteps and pursue leadership roles in finance or energy, he offered a few pieces of advice based on his own career journey.
“Explore broadly,” Chris encouraged. His career path wasn’t linear, and he believes that learning about different functions within an organization helps build a more well-rounded perspective. He also stressed the importance of continuous learning.
“The pace of knowledge acquisition should exceed the passage of time,” he noted, encouraging professionals to constantly seek opportunities for growth.
In addition to technical expertise, Chris emphasized the importance of building a strong professional network.
“Cultivate a network of people you can trust to give you advice,” he said, highlighting how such connections are invaluable as you move forward in your career.
Finally, he offered this bit of advice:
“Focus on depth, not titles. Success will come if you have the right skills and passion.”
- Chris McConnachie
Chris McConnachie’s leadership at National Grid reflects the evolving role of utility companies in an increasingly sustainable and technology-driven world. As CFO, he is not only managing the financial complexities of a large utility company but is also playing a pivotal role in guiding National Grid through the challenges and opportunities of the energy transition.
For anyone involved in the energy sector, particularly in leadership roles, the insights shared in this episode are crucial for navigating the future of energy. Whether it’s balancing financial priorities with sustainability goals, investing in renewable energy, or improving customer experiences through technology, Chris’s approach provides valuable lessons for any organization looking to innovate and grow responsibly.