Joe Perkins joined Citizens Energy Group on February 14. As Senior Vice President and General Counsel, he oversees Legal, Regulatory and External Affairs, Human Resources, Health Safety and Security, Internal Audit, and Environmental Stewardship.
1. What did you do prior to coming to Citizens?
I have been an attorney for 33 years, most recently at Allison Transmission, where I was Corporate Counsel – Regulatory and Global Business Operations. I was the lead regulatory compliance attorney for the company, which included global trade compliance and compliance with global mobile source emissions regulations.
2. What attracted you to Citizens?
One of the main attractions is the opportunity to have a positive impact on the day-to-day lives of the residents of central Indiana, who are also the beneficiaries of the Trust. Also, Citizens has a terrific reputation. As I learned more about the Trust and its role in this community, I knew this was an organization I wanted to join. I am looking forward to working with a broad cross-section of Citizens employees and stakeholders.
3. Why do you think the One Company, One Culture initiative is important?
One Company, One Culture is important because it provides every person within the Trust a common identity, and a common set of goals, methodologies, and tools to accomplish our mission. By staying true to One Company, One Culture, I think Citizens Energy Group can accomplish anything. I think it’s important for each of us to lead by example and conduct ourselves according to our core values.
4. You are a certified Six Sigma sponsor. Can you share more about that?
Certified Six Sigma sponsors have been trained to provide strategic guidance on each aspect of the Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, and Control process. The sponsor helps the Six Sigma team stay focused on the project charter, while guiding them to let the data determine the project’s outcome. The sponsor also helps the team ensure that their improvements are sustainable.
5. What are your hobbies or interests?
My hobbies and interests seem to evolve over time. My most recent interest is practicing Tai Chi. During the height of the pandemic when everything was closed, I found a Tai Chi course that I could take on-line with a live instructor. I have found Tai Chi to be a good way for me to relieve stress. I also enjoy cooking, and I am a huge fan of the Indianapolis Colts.
6. What is your favorite place to vacation?
My wife, Mary-Jane, and I love to spend time with our two adult sons on Hilton Head Island. We’ve gone there for years and enjoy the beach and food. It’s a place where we unplug and relax.
