ERCOT announced on July 15 that it has named former American Electric Power executive Gilbert Hughes as its new vice president of public affairs, where he will coordinate communications and government affairs.

The grid operator said Hughes has four decades of experience in the electric utility industry, with a focus on Texas public policy. He served as vice president of external affairs for AEP, where he also had leadership positions in regulatory services, governmental affairs and community relations.

Hughes replaces Robert Black, who will serve as executive adviser during a transition period that begins immediately. Hughes will be responsible for the organization’s external communications, government affairs and customer support.

ERCOT CEO Pablo Vegas said in a statement that a key component of meeting the state’s reliability needs will be transparent communications with the public and close collaboration with state leaders and agencies, market participants and lawmakers.