The New Jersey Utilities Association (NJUA) announced the appointment of two seasoned professionals to its Board of Directors: Kim Downes of New Jersey American Water and Cynthia Holland of Atlantic City Electric.
As the state’s utility landscape faces a period of rapid evolution, these appointments are aimed at strengthening the association’s leadership in advancing reliability, affordability, and sustainability for New Jersey consumers.
“Kim and Cynthia are accomplished leaders who bring extensive experience, strategic insight and a deep understanding of what it takes to deliver excellent service to the residents and businesses of New Jersey,” NJUA President and CEO Rich Henning said. “We are excited to welcome Kim and Cynthia to the NJUA Board at such a pivotal time for our industry.”
Kim Downes joins the board with 35 years of experience in government relations, strategic consulting, and public policy. As the Vice President of Business Development, Government and External Affairs at New Jersey American Water, she leads strategic outreach and legislative engagement. Previously, she founded Salmon Ventures Limited and was instrumental in the creation of the New Jersey Energy Coalition.
“It is an honor to be selected to serve the New Jersey utility community as a NJUA Board member,” Downes said. “I look forward to working on policies that will benefit the people of this great state.”
Cynthia Holland, Vice President of Regulatory Policy and Strategy at Atlantic City Electric (ACE), brings a wealth of legal and regulatory knowledge to the board. Her career includes serving as a Deputy Attorney General for New Jersey and working as the Director of Federal and Regional Policy at the Board of Public Utilities. Additionally, her background includes a tenure as a Councilwoman for the Township of Verona, where she managed municipal water and wastewater infrastructure projects.
“This is such an exciting time to help shape and advance the mission and vision at NJUA and advance thoughtful, effective regulatory solutions,” Holland said. “I look forward to building on our strong, existing partnerships.”
Both new board members will play a direct role in guiding the NJUA as it collaborates with state regulators and stakeholders. Their combined backgrounds—spanning from infrastructure investment and rate case management to policy development and community service—are expected to be instrumental as the association navigates the complexities of the state’s energy and utility future.
