SPOKANE, Wash. — Dennis Vermillion, CEO of Avista, announced his retirement today, effective Jan. 1, 2025. Vermillion will transition his duties to Heather Rosentrater.
According to the press release, Rosentrater who is currently Avista’s President and COO, who will take over as CEO on that date. Rosentrater, who will retain her role as president and join the board of directors, will become the first woman CEO in the company’s history.
“Succession planning is something that we’ve carefully considered and purposely planned for over the years,” said Vermillion. “Heather has demonstrated a strong commitment to our company, employees, communities, and shareholders. I am confident she will successfully lead Avista into the future. At every turn since joining Avista, Heather has positioned our utility to be at the forefront of innovation. She has demonstrated she possesses the values, strength, acumen, and insights to lead Avista during these unique times. I’m excited for Avista’s future under Heather’s leadership as CEO, the first female CEO in our company’s history.”
Vermillion, a Spokane native and Washington State University graduate, has been with Avista since 1985, holding various leadership roles over nearly 24 years, including president and senior vice president. Rosentrater, who has been with Avista since 1996, was appointed President and COO on Oct. 1, 2023.
