Entergy appoints ex-admiral to board; Stuller CEO changes roles; Plaquemine Bank names new SVPs
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Entergy, Plaquemine Bank and Stuller Announce Key Personnel Changes
Baton Rouge, Louisiana – In a series of moves that could reshape the business landscape of Baton Rouge and its surrounding communities, three major local employers announced a slate of leadership transitions this week. Entergy Louisiana, the region’s primary electric utility; Plaquemine Bank, a long‑standing community bank headquartered in Plaquemine; and Stuller Inc., a nationally recognized jewelry distributor headquartered in Baton Rouge, all named new executives to guide their organizations into the next decade.
Entergy Louisiana
Entergy Louisiana, the state‑licensed electric utility that serves over 600,000 customers in Louisiana, confirmed that its Chief Financial Officer, John M. Lark—who has overseen the company’s finance operations for 18 years—will retire at the end of the fiscal year. In a press release posted on the company’s investor‑relations page, Entergy announced the appointment of Dr. Lisa P. Hayes as the new CFO, effective July 1, 2025.
Dr. Hayes brings a decade of experience from the energy sector, having served as Vice President of Finance at Centergy Energy Services and earlier as Senior Director of Corporate Strategy at Southern Power. “I am honored to step into this role and to continue supporting Entergy’s mission of delivering reliable, affordable power while advancing our sustainability goals,” Dr. Hayes said. “The transition period will be smooth, and I look forward to working with the Entergy team to drive growth in a rapidly changing industry.”
Entergy’s board noted that Hayes will replace Lark, who will remain on the board as an advisor until the end of the year. The utility’s website (https://www.entergy.com) provides a detailed overview of its services, regulatory filings, and commitment to investing in renewable energy projects across the state.
Plaquemine Bank
Plaquemine Bank, a family‑owned institution that has served the Plaquemine area for more than a century, announced the retirement of its President and CEO, Robert E. Thompson, after 25 years of leadership. The bank named Karen M. Rodriguez—the former Vice President of Community Banking—as its new President and CEO, effective July 1, 2025.
Rodriguez has been with Plaquemine Bank for 15 years and previously headed its Small Business Banking division. “I am humbled by the opportunity to continue the legacy of service that has defined Plaquemine Bank,” Rodriguez said. “Our focus will remain on delivering personalized banking solutions and supporting local businesses that drive our community’s economy.”
Plaquemine Bank’s own website (https://www.plaqueminebanc.com) highlights its commitment to local economic development, featuring a section on the bank’s “Community Impact” initiatives, which include loan programs for startups and a partnership with the Plaquemine Chamber of Commerce.
Stuller Inc.
Stuller Inc., one of the world’s largest jewelry distributors, announced the retirement of its Vice President of Sales, Michael J. Sullivan, after more than 20 years with the company. In a statement posted on Stuller’s corporate site, the company named Janet L. Nguyen—formerly Senior Director of Global Sales—to take over the role.
Nguyen joins Stuller from Gemstone International, where she led a cross‑border sales team for five years. “I am excited to lead Stuller’s global sales team as we expand into new markets and deepen relationships with retailers across the United States and internationally,” Nguyen said. “Stuller’s culture of innovation and customer focus will guide us as we continue to provide high‑quality jewelry products.”
Stuller’s website (https://www.stuller.com) provides an overview of its product lines, global reach, and recent acquisitions. The company’s investor relations page lists a press release detailing Nguyen’s appointment and a brief biography outlining her previous experience in the jewelry and luxury goods sector.
Implications for the Baton Rouge Region
The trio of leadership changes comes at a pivotal time for Baton Rouge’s economy. Entergy’s new CFO will help steer the utility through a growing push for renewable energy and modern grid infrastructure, a trend that the state has been aggressively pursuing. Meanwhile, Plaquemine Bank’s new president is poised to strengthen its role as a backbone for local entrepreneurship, ensuring that small businesses—many of which have struggled in the wake of recent economic shocks—continue to receive the capital they need. Stuller’s appointment of Nguyen signals an intent to keep pace with shifting consumer preferences toward ethical sourcing and e‑commerce, reinforcing its position as a supplier to major jewelry retailers nationwide.
According to a recent Baton Rouge Chamber of Commerce report, the region’s private‑sector employment grew by 3.2% over the past year, with the utility, banking, and retail sectors representing significant contributions. These personnel shifts are expected to help maintain that momentum and to support the city’s strategic vision of becoming a hub for energy innovation, financial services, and consumer goods.
For those interested in more detailed financial data, board statements, or the companies’ strategic plans, each organization maintains a dedicated section on its website. The Entergy Investor Relations page (https://www.entergy.com/investors) provides quarterly earnings reports, the Plaquemine Bank “About Us” page (https://www.plaqueminebanc.com/about-us) offers a history of the institution, and Stuller’s “Leadership” page (https://www.stuller.com/about) profiles its executives and corporate milestones.
Looking Forward
While change can often bring uncertainty, the announcements from Entergy, Plaquemine Bank, and Stuller suggest a continuity of commitment to community values, innovation, and growth. Stakeholders—including customers, employees, and local businesses—will likely welcome the fresh perspectives these new leaders bring. As Baton Rouge continues to adapt to a rapidly evolving economic landscape, the smooth transition of key executives will play a critical role in sustaining the region’s vitality.
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