William D. Johnson is the former CEO of PG&E Corporation, having served from May 1, 2019, until he stepped down on June 30, 2020. Before his role at PG&E, he spent six years as the President and CEO of the...
William D. Johnson is the former CEO of PG&E Corporation, having served from May 1, 2019, until he stepped down on June 30, 2020. Before his role at PG&E, he spent six years as the President and CEO of the Tennessee Valley Authority, showcasing his extensive experience in the utilities sector. Johnson's management was crucial during a turbulent time for PG&E, especially following its bankruptcy filing due to catastrophic wildfires linked to its equipment. Despite a base salary of $2.5 million, he chose not to take bonuses during his last year, signifying a commitment to accountability amid PG&E’s challenges. During 2020, he did not receive stock options or awards, reflecting a strategic shift in executive compensation tied to company performance. Johnson was notable for significant trading in PG&E stock just before he left, which peaked at over $6 million in one month. This positions him uniquely in the narrative of corporate leadership during crises.