Two co-founders of a successful NC solar power and building performance company take a unique approach to ensuring their company’s legacy, culture, and mission.
Raleigh, NC – Southern Energy Management (SEM), a leading solar and building performance company, has transitioned ownership after 23 years. Co-founders Bob and Maria Kingery have sold 100% of the company to seven long-time team members who collectively bring over 108 years of experience at SEM.
“After considering a number of options for our succession at SEM, we chose this path because we believe that it provides the best opportunity for the company to continue to thrive over the long term. We are grateful that we’ve been able to transition ownership to the team who, for more than a decade, have helped us build SEM into the successful company it is today. Most importantly, we are confident that this group of truly outstanding human beings will continue to Lead the Change with the same love that we have poured into the company for the past 23 years.” – Bob and Maria Kingery, Co-Founders of Southern Energy Management
Founded in 2001, SEM has been at the forefront of innovative energy solutions, from solar power to energy efficiency in the built environment. This carefully planned transition, which has been 10+ years in the making, was designed to preserve the spirit of SEM, maintain stability for customers, partners, and SEM’s team, and is a bold next step in sustaining the next chapter of this sustainable energy company.
The new ownership team includes Brinson Fuller, Daniel Conner, Graham Alexander, Jamie Hager, Laurie Colwander, Taylor Fearrington, and Will Etheridge. Having played crucial roles in SEM’s leadership, they are well-equipped to carry forward the company’s legacy.
“No new owners could be more deeply connected to our business or better prepared to transition from leaders to owners. Bob and Maria treated us as equals, providing space to grow, learn from our mistakes, and ultimately take full responsibility for SEM’s daily operations in preparation for this transition. We are deeply committed to this team, and their guidance has further instilled our dedication to our mission and core values.” – Laurie Colwander, Co-Owner, Southern Energy Management
With this transition, Will Etheridge steps into the role of CEO and Integrator. Having spent 12 years across SEM’s solar operations, sales, design, and marketing teams, Will brings deep experience and a commitment to the company’s mission.
“SEM has a powerful mission and great business channels with boundless opportunity – but the thing that gives me the most confidence is our people. We are a team full of passionate, skilled, kind, and mission-oriented folks who are committed to both making energy more sustainable but also being a model for how to build a sustainable business. So while I’m confident that the talents, spikes, and experiences I will bring to this role will help – I know SEM will continue to succeed, improve, and thrive because of the people that make up the team.” – Will Etheridge, CEO and Co-Owner, Southern Energy Management
This transition marks an important step for SEM as it continues its mission of making energy more sustainable while proving that business can be a force for good. To learn more about Southern Energy Management and their journey to sustaining one of North Carolina’s oldest solar and building performance companies, visit: https://southern-energy.com/a-new-chapter-for-southern-energy/
About Southern Energy Management
Southern Energy Management, headquartered in Raleigh, NC, is the Southeast’s rooftop solar and building performance expert. Founded in 2001, we’ve worked for more than a decade to improve the way people–homeowners, businesses, builders, and developers–create, consume, and conserve energy. We’re firm believers that businesses have the power to change the world for the better, and we’re committed to working toward that goal each and every day. We believe what you do is important, and we also believe how you do it matters just as much. Because of that, we’re proud to be a Certified B Corporation in NC.
Media Contact Information
Alyssa Hardbower
Southern Energy Management
Phone: 919-605-4669
Email: alyssa@southern-energy.com
Website: southern-energy.com
