KUMUD KALIA
Chief Information Officer & EVP Customer Operations

Kumud is responsible for business alignment of the Information Services organization, across operations, development and support functions, as well as the formulation and implementation of Direct Energy’s technology strategy. Since joining Direct Energy in 2005, he has championed the use of business process engineering techniques and established a framework for repeatable rapid execution of business transformation initiatives. In 2007 Direct Energy was selected for a CIO 100 award, received for technology innovation in business.

In addition to his IS leadership responsibilities, he has executive oversight of customer operations functions, to ensure that capabilities and best practices are fully leveraged across the North America businesses. Kumud is a member of the Direct Energy Executive Committee. He also heads the Business Continuity function for the company.

Kumud brings over 20 years of international technology and business experience. Prior to joining Direct Energy, he was Vice President & CIO of the Business Markets Group of Qwest Communications International. Formerly CIO for Dresdner Group in North America, he has performed in technology, operations and strategy roles at various investment banks, including UBS and Morgan Stanley.

Kumud holds an honors degree in Electronic Engineering from the University of Wales and is a chartered engineer.