Holly Springs Utilities Department Names Paul Michael as New General Manager Following TVPPA Executive Search

After an extensive search process, the City of Holly Springs, Miss., has named Paul Michael to lead its Utility Department (HSUD).

Michael, a 14-year veteran of the electric utility industry in the Tennessee Valley, has most recently served as Geographic Information System Director at Sheffield Utilities in Alabama. 

Michael Watson, a veteran electric system engineer who served as a consultant for HSUD, was appointed receiver for the Holly Springs Utility Department’s electric system in August by Mississippi’s 18th Chancery Court District. As a consultant, Watson worked closely with TVPPA Human Resources Director Bernadette Martin on the executive recruitment process to fill the critical General Manager role at a pivotal time for the utility and the community it serves.

"As we began the search for the new GM, we knew we had to have someone with real operations experience and a solid foundation in understanding technology. That experience and understanding is a must as Holly Springs builds its AMI and GIS systems," said Watson. 

Watson added, "We are confident that Paul is up to the challenge. He's not afraid of hard work and he's open to learning continuously. As he takes on the challenges and opportunities of his new role, I will be here, as receiver, to ensure that all decisions are for the long-term benefit of the ratepayers. I will be a sounding board, and an extra set of hands as needed."

As he prepares to step into his new role at HSUD, Paul Michael said his first priority is to listen. "I want to meet with employees, spend time in every department, and develop a clear understanding of the people, finances, infrastructure and day-to-day operations." 

He added, "From there, the focus will be on stabilizing operations, improving safety and reliability, reviewing maintenance and staffing needs, strengthening communication and establishing clear accountability. My initial 30-, 60- and 90-day plan is meant to help us understand what needs immediate attention and begin building a practical path forward. We will not fix everything overnight, but we can begin changing the way we operate from day one. The standard moving forward will be built around trust, reliability, accountability and discipline." 

Both Paul Michael and Michael Watson expressed appreciation for TVPPA's role in the recruitment process. 

"Bernadette Martin did an outstanding job helping us to clarify the needs of the organization and keep the process moving forward. There are many ways an organization can step on a legal landmine. Bernadette kept us on the right path," said Watson.

Paul Michael also credited the candor and rigorous interview framework Martin brought to the process. "The process did not sugarcoat the situation at HSUD. It allowed me to ask honest questions, meet Michael Watson and the members of the HSUD Board, and gain a better understanding of the utility and the communities it serves before accepting the position. I entered the process with no previous relationship with anyone involved, so the information and access provided through TVPPA were important in helping me make an informed decision." 

TVPPA’s Executive Search service supports member utilities throughout the recruitment process, from defining the position and identifying qualified candidates to developing interview questions, participating in interviews, and assisting with final selection. The service combines executive recruitment expertise with an understanding of the utility industry and the leadership needs unique to public power.

Paul Michael will assume the role of HSUD General Manager on Sept. 21, 2026.