Search committee to seek replacement for Jo Ann Emerson, who has been absent since a brain hemorrhage in August

The $194 million-revenue National Rural Electric Cooperative Association will begin a search for a new CEO following a meeting with the still-recovering Jo Ann Emerson and her family, according to an internal memo obtained by CEO Update.

Emerson had a brain hemorrhage in August while vacationing with her family in Italy. She continues to recover at home, according to the memo.

The development was not unexpected. Her former chief of staff, Jeffrey Connor, was initially named acting CEO. Then, in November, he was named interim CEO. The move implied that Emerson would not return, but that was not stated publicly.

Connor emailed NRECA staff Dec. 13 with news of the planned search, following the Dec. 10 conclusion of the group's winter board meeting.

"After a visit with Jo Ann and her family, (board) President (Mel) Coleman gave a full briefing on Jo Ann's medical condition and progress, her treatment plan, and her prognosis for recovery.

"Jo Ann continues to improve with aggressive therapy and home care. With Jo Ann we've learned some valuable lessons about what is possible with the right leadership, and we are grateful for her service to NRECA and our members.

"The board also determined that a search committee will be formed to begin the process of seeking a new CEO," Connor said in the memo.

NRECA has not announced the search publicly; it is unknown whether a search firm has been selected.

Emerson, a Republican member of Congress from Missouri for 16 years, joined NRECA as CEO in 2013, succeeding Glenn English, a former Democratic U.S. representative.

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