The board of directors of Northwest Natural Gas Company (NW Natural) has appointed Kim Rush, a longtime executive within the company, to serve as president, effective April 1, 2025. NW Natural, the largest subsidiary of Northwest Natural Holding Company (NW Natural Holdings), is a 166-year-old utility based in Portland.
In her new role, Rush will oversee all strategic, financial, and operational responsibilities for NW Natural. This appointment aligns with Justin B. Palfreyman’s anticipated transition to the role of CEO for both NW Natural Holdings and NW Natural, succeeding the retiring David H. Anderson.
Rush’s tenure at NW Natural began in 1998, during which she has held numerous leadership positions in communications, marketing, and operations. Her extensive experience culminated in her appointment as senior vice president and chief operating officer of NW Natural in 2023. Additionally, she has served as chief marketing officer and chief corporate communications officer.
Justin B. Palfreyman, president of NW Natural Holdings, commented on Rush’s integral role within the organisation, highlighting her extensive knowledge of the gas utility sector and her respected position among industry peers. He noted that her commitment to NW Natural’s core values and mission is crucial for the company’s continued success in delivering natural gas safely and reliably to customers.
Expressing her pride in her career at NW Natural, Rush emphasised the team’s dedication to the communities they serve and the importance of their work in supporting the regional energy system.
Before her tenure at NW Natural, Rush held management and senior communications roles at Alltel Corporation and Bank of America Corporation in Chicago. She currently serves on the board of the Northwest Gas Association and participates in the Operations and Sustainable Growth committees of the American Gas Association. Her prior board experience includes roles with ONE Future, the Western Energy Institute, Greater Portland, Inc., LifeWorks Northwest, Natural Gas Vehicles for America, and Utilisation Technology Development, which is affiliated with the Gas Technology Institute.
Rush holds a Bachelor of Arts in Communications from the University of Iowa and a Master of Science in Communications from Northwestern University in Illinois.
For more information visit www.nwnaturalholdings.com
