The California Public Utilities Commission Thursday tapped a veteran state civil service executive as its executive director replacing Bill Ahern who retired suddenly in June. The five-member panel named Steve Larson, currently the executive director at the California Energy Commission, to take on its chief operating officer role, effective July 15. With more than 35 years of state service in agencies and the state legislature, Larson is viewed as very knowledgeable about the workings of state government and the legislature. Prior to his energy commission position as that body’s CFO, Larson spent many years in the finance department and before that, 17 years as the chief consultant on the state Senate Budget Committee. Larson hold a bachelor’s degree in philosophy/psychology and a master’s in history — all from San Jose State University, and he served two years in the Peace Corps in Guyana. CPUC President Michael Peevey said Larson has an “impressive work history,” along with “proven leadership skills.” He expects Larson to help the CPUC set and meet its goals. Larson said he is very aware of the issues the CPUC is facing and is ready to put his experience to use at a new state assignment.

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