Cory Poncelet has joined Southern Minnesota Municipal Power Agency as Director of Finance and Accounting and Chief Financial Officer.
Poncelet began his new role on September 21, succeeding Beth Fondell as she prepares to retire after six years of dedicated service to the Agency.
Poncelet brings more than 25 years of financial leadership experience to SMMPA. He is a former chief financial officer and has expertise in financial strategy, capital management, enterprise risk management and governance.
For the past 12 years, he provided strategic advisory services as a financial consultant, helping organizations manage interest rate risk and improve financial performance. Before that, he spent 13 years in the banking industry, including seven years as a chief financial officer overseeing finance, accounting, technology, insurance and facilities.
“We are pleased to welcome Cory to SMMPA,” said SMMPA Chief Executive Officer Dave Geschwind. “His extensive financial leadership experience and collaborative approach will serve the Agency and our member utilities well. Cory’s background in financial planning, capital management, and risk management makes him an excellent fit for this important role.”
Geschwind also thanked Fondell for her service to SMMPA. “Beth has been a trusted colleague, an outstanding leader and an important part of SMMPA’s success since joining the Agency in 2020. Her leadership has strengthened the Agency’s financial position and helped guide several important financial initiatives. We are grateful for her dedicated service and for the thoughtful transition she is providing.”
