December 30, 2024
KANSAS CITY, KS—The Kansas City Board of Public Utilities (BPU) has named Jeremy Ash its
new General Manager, effective January 1, 2025. Ash succeeds Bill Johnson, who will retire on
December 31st after nearly a 45-year career of distinguished service to BPU and the Wyandotte
County community.
The decision comes after a comprehensive nationwide search and evaluation process led by an
external recruiting firm. With input from the BPU Customer Engagement Committee and multiple
rounds of interviews, the BPU Board of Directors selected Ash for his proven leadership, deep
knowledge of utility operations, and commitment to serving the community.
Ash brings over 24 years of experience at BPU, recently serving as Chief Operating Officer. In this
role, he oversaw electric and water operations, managing over 400 employees and combined
budgets exceeding $200 million. Known for his innovative and collaborative approach, Ash
implemented enhanced coal tracking systems that saved $7 million annually for BPU ratepayers,
reorganized operational teams to improve efficiency and responsiveness, and developed leadership
training programs to strengthen frontline management.
“Jeremy Ash’s experience and vision for BPU stood out during the selection process,” said BPU
Board President Tom Groneman. “His deep understanding of our organization, combined with his
focus on operational excellence and customer care, make him the right leader to guide BPU
forward.”
Ash shared his excitement and commitment for the new role:
“I’m honored to step into this role and continue serving the community I care deeply about. Together
with our dedicated team, I look forward to building on Bill Johnson’s legacy, driving innovation, and
ensuring BPU is a trusted partner and provider of safe, reliable, and affordable utility services for
Wyandotte County.”
Ash holds a Master of Business Administration and a Bachelor of Applied Organizational Leadership
from MidAmerica Nazarene University and is finalizing a Master of Public Administration at
Louisiana State University. He is actively involved in the utility industry, serving as Chair of the
American Public Power Association’s RP3 Panel and on the boards of Kansas Municipal Utilities,
Kansas Municipal Energy Agency, and Western Fuels Association.
For media inquiries, please contact Amber Oetting, Director of Communications and Marketing, at
aoetting@bpu.com or (913) 573-9049.