Former U.S. Senator “Mel” Martinez of Florida has been elected to the board of directors for Progress Energy, the company announced today. Progress Energy had the unenviable distinction of being ranked the 12th worst company for the environment in 2009, out of America’s 500 largest corporations, according to Newsweek.
Martinez, 63, was the first Cuban-American to serve in the U.S. Senate, from 2005 to 2009. He also served as mayor of Orange County, Fla., and on the board of the Orlando Utilities Commission before his election to the Senate. Today, he is a partner in the law firm of DLA Piper, where he specializes in all aspects of public policy. In addition to his public service, he has more than 25 years in private legal practice.
“Sen. Martinez brings significant experience with financial, energy and governmental affairs issues,” said Bill Johnson, chairman, president and CEO of Progress Energy. “His addition makes our strategic and diverse board of directors even stronger and will give us another informed point of view as we work to address changing energy realities and the important decisions and investments facing our company.”
Martinez becomes the 14th member of the board of directors.
Last month, Progress Energy reported higher fourth-quarter profit, underpinned by revenue growth, scrapped operations and lower income tax expense. The company generates over $9 billion in annual revenues and serves approximately 3.1 million customers in Florida and the Carolinas.
