Robert C. Rowe served as the President and CEO of NorthWestern Energy from 2008 until the end of 2022, marking 14 years at the helm of the company. With a background in regulatory affairs and a history of leadership roles,...

Robert C. Rowe served as the President and CEO of NorthWestern Energy from 2008 until the end of 2022, marking 14 years at the helm of the company. With a background in regulatory affairs and a history of leadership roles, Rowe shaped NorthWestern during a time of regulatory changes and challenges. He previously co-founded a consulting firm that advised energy and telecom clients and was a commissioner of the Montana Public Service Commission before joining NorthWestern. His compensation has varied over the years, from around $500,000 in salary at the start to over $3.3 million in later years, influenced largely by performance-linked stock awards. Notably, Rowe's tenure witnessed both successes and setbacks, especially with the impact of COVID-19 on company performance metrics. He regularly emphasized aligning executive pay with the interests of stakeholders, reflecting a structured approach to corporate governance. Rowe’s leadership style emphasized long-term goals to enhance customer satisfaction and utility reliability, critical factors for success in the energy sector. He executed plans to improve financial outcomes while also facing periods of challenge in meeting performance targets, illustrating the volatile nature of the industry. Rowe's journey at NorthWestern is a testament to navigating complex challenges while pursuing growth and stability in the utility market. His legacy as CEO comes as he transitions out of the role, passing the reins to a successor who carries forward the company's mission.