Home >

Tony Cannon to Succeed Ron Elks as GUC General Manager/CEO
December 15, 2011

At its regular monthly meeting held December 15, Greenville Utilities Board of Commissioners selected Anthony (“Tony”) C. Cannon to succeed Ron Elks as GUC’s General Manager/CEO, upon Elks’ retirement. Cannon will assume overall responsibility for the operations of Greenville’s municipally-owned electric, water, sanitary sewer and natural gas utility on May 1, 2012. He has served as GUC’s Assistant General Manager/COO since 2006.

“The Board unanimously agreed to implement the succession plan that has been in place for several years,” said Dr. Virginia Hardy, GUC Board Vice-Chair who presided over the meeting. “We are all in agreement that Tony is well-prepared and uniquely qualified to lead GUC, and the Board looks forward to working with him to uphold the high standards that have characterized Ron Elks’ tenure.” 

Cannon has been in the municipal utility field for 26 years, joining GUC from Greer Commission of Public Works in South Carolina.

“Tony has an in-depth knowledge of Greenville Utilities and the utility industry,” said Freeman Paylor, GUC Board Chair. “His hands-on experience at GUC and in the community will facilitate a smooth transition as we address future challenges and opportunities.”  

“It is an honor to be selected as General Manager/CEO of Greenville Utilities and be part of a legacy of exceptional leadership – Ron Elks, Malcolm Green, Charles Horne, and others who have shaped GUC into the outstanding organization it is today,” said Cannon. “I appreciate the confidence the Board has shown in me and will work diligently to fulfill our mission. I look forward to continuing to work with our Board, Management Team and more than 430 dedicated employees who provide exceptional customer service on a daily basis.”

Cannon holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and Master’s degree in Organizational Management from Southern Wesleyan University. 

He has substantial experience in electric, water, sewer and gas operations, including engineering, energy management, marketing, grant procurements, utility planning & budgeting, team building, key accounts, and project management. He has proven success in fostering a workforce in a customer focused environment.

Currently Chair-elect of the Pitt-Greenville Chamber of Commerce, Cannon also serves on the Board of the Greater Greenville Sports Club, and the Board of the East Carolina Vocational Center. He is also involved with numerous professional organizations and currently serves as Chair of the APPA Economic Development Committee.

He and his wife, Trisha, have three children.