MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Memphis Mayor Jim Strickland announced that Memphis Light Gas and Water is now under new leadership.
On Wednesday morning, Mayor Strickland selected City of Memphis’ chief operating officer Doug McGowen as the next president and CEO of MLGW.
Former president and CEO, J.T. Young, resigned last month after serving for four years. The resignation goes into effect on Oct. 14.
McGowen is a 26-year career naval officer and previously served as head of the Mayor’s Innovation Delivery Team.
The announcement comes as customers have complained about long wait times when calling MLGW customer service. McGowen said they would be bringing on more staff.
They have also faced infrastructure problems and power outages.
McGowen, who as COO also sat on the Power Supply Advisory Team, wants MLGW’s service to be the last thing on customers’ minds.
“Our goal is to allow people to live a prosperous life to be able to rely upon those services that you shouldn’t have to think about,” he said.
Deputy Chief Operating Officer Chandell Ryan will replace McGowen as the newest chief operating officer, becoming the first woman to serve in the position.
“As a long-time city employee, Chandell brings her intimate knowledge of all levels of city government,” Mayor Strickland said.
“It’s just great to be acknowledged for the behind-the-scenes thing that happen at this administration and to be rewarded for keeping your head down and doing the work every day to make things better for the city of Memphis,” Ryan said.
Both appointments are pending city council approval.