The Learning Organization

Larry Downes
CEO, New Jersey Resources

Everyone is a leader. In this leadership insight Larry Downs discusses that the power of any organization is based on how well it is able to capture the talents of every individual and the importance of creating a culture where an individual’s experience and knowledge is valued.

Biography
Laurence Downes is Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of New Jersey Resources (NJR) and its principal subsidiary, New Jersey Natural Gas (NJNG). New Jersey Resources, a Fortune 1000 company with over $3 billion in annual revenues, provides natural gas and clean energy services to customers in New Jersey and in states from the Gulf Coast to New England, and Canada. Laurence joined NJR in March 1985 and was appointed Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer in January 1990. In March 1995, he was elected President and CEO of NJNG and a member of NJR’s Board of Directors. In July 1995, he was named President and CEO of NJR. In September 1996, he was named Chairman of NJR’s Board of Directors. Laurence received a bachelor’s degree in business administration in June 1979 from Iona College and a master’s degree in business administration from Iona in June 1981. He is a Director and past Chairman of the American Gas Association and the Natural Gas Council, and a Trustee of the American Gas Foundation. He is also past Chairman and serves as a member of the New Jersey Commission on Higher Education. He serves as Chairman of the Finance Council of the Catholic Diocese of Trenton. Additionally, he is Vice Chairman of the Iona College Legal Board of Trustees.