Jackson Energy Authority announces leadership changes, new hire

Monte Cooper, former Chief Operating Officer at Jackson Energy Authority, has been promoted to President and Chief Executive Officer as of February 1, 2023. Cooper replaces Jim Ferrell, who left the company at the end of January. Cooper's promotion comes with three additional hires and promotions to the leadership team at the energy and telecommunications company.

“I am pleased to announce the following changes to JEA’s organizational structure,” Cooper said in a press release.

Ryan Porter will join the JEA team on Feb. 13 as the new Chief Operating Officer for JEA. Porter previously served as the Chief Strategy Officer, General Counsel, Chief Operating Officer and Vice President of Strategic Initiatives at the Greater Jackson Chamber since 2011. Prior to that, Porter worked at JEA as the Director of Safety and Security. He also previously worked for the Jackson Police Department and graduated from Middle Tennessee State University and Nashville School of Law.

Ted Austin has been promoted as Chief Customer Officer at JEA. He has worked for the company since 2002, serviing in many capacities from customer service representative to Vice President of Customer Service and Community Relations. Austin is a graduate of the University of Tennessee at Martin and Union University.

Mike Baughn has been promoted to Chief Technology Officer for JEA. Baughn has worked for JEA since 2004, starting as a programmer analyst. He was promoted to Vice President of Information Technology in 2011. Baughn is a graduate of Bethel University and the University of Tennessee at Martin.

J"ackson Energy Authority is one of very few public utilities in the nation to offer all major utility services from one company. Outstanding customer service paired with the strength of diversity in services and commitment to community has enabled JEA to maintain its mission: to create value for customers and help improve the quality of life in our community,." the release said.