Duke Energy and Cinergy Announce Future Utility Company Presidents

"As we prepare to bring our two companies together, we have been able to draw on an incredible pool of talent," said Cinergy chairman and chief executive officer James E. Rogers, who will be CEO of the combined company. "I am confident that this leadership team will enable us to provide top quality service to our customers and strong returns to our investors going forward."

The announcement included the three presidents of the utility companies that will be part of the new Duke Energy.

"The three leaders chosen for our utility companies all have strong experience serving customers and working with local communities," said Rogers. "They will continue our commitment to reliable, cost effective service and community involvement."

Ellen T. Ruff, Duke Power group vice president, planning and external relations, will be president of Duke Power, the Carolinas utility business. Kay E. Pashos, president of PSI, serving Indiana, will continue in that role.

Sandra P. Meyer, Duke Power group vice president, customer service, sales and marketing, will be president of The Cincinnati Gas & Electric Co. (CG&E) and Union Light Heat and Power (ULH&P), the northern Kentucky utility subsidiary of CG&E. Gregory C. Ficke, current president of CG&E and ULH&P, has decided to leave the company after 28 years of service, but has agreed to assist in the transition for at least one year.