Michael J. Hanson is the Chief Executive Officer of NorthWestern Energy Group, a role he has held since 2005. Before taking the helm at NorthWestern, he built his career in management, starting with Northern States Power Company where he served...

Michael J. Hanson is the Chief Executive Officer of NorthWestern Energy Group, a role he has held since 2005. Before taking the helm at NorthWestern, he built his career in management, starting with Northern States Power Company where he served as General Manager. With a solid background in energy management, he transitioned into the CEO position after being promoted from President of the utility division. Under his leadership, NorthWestern Energy has navigated some tough times, including emerging from bankruptcy in 2004, showcasing resilience in a challenging industry. Michael's compensation has fluctuated with the company’s ups and downs, peaking with a total package that hit over $800,000 in 2008, a significant amount that reflects the company's recovery. Interestingly, during his tenure, Hanson's stock holdings fluctuated from around 13,000 shares at the start of his term to just under 8,000 shares more recently, illustrating the challenges faced. However, it shows he has skin in the game, aligning his interests with shareholders. Beyond the numbers, Hanson has put his mark on the company’s culture, pushing for performance metrics related to reliability and customer satisfaction. He has established a solid foundation in a competitive market, emphasizing the importance of transparency and alignment with shareholder interests.