ARLINGTON, Va. – Stephen Bell has been named senior vice president of communications at the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association. In this role, Bell will lead the organization’s extensive communications and marketing efforts in support of nearly 900 electric cooperatives nationwide.
“Stephen understands electric cooperatives and the important connection between effective communications and successful outcomes for our members,” NRECA CEO Jim Matheson said. “He will provide an essential perspective at the senior leadership table as we work to engage our members, influence public policy outcomes, and elevate our reputation.”
Bell has been with NRECA for 10 years, serving most recently as vice president of advocacy, press, and member communications. In his previous roles for the association, Bell led transformative consumer-engagement projects, helped recalibrate NRECA’s approach to member engagement, and directed an aggressive effort to elevate the profile of the association on key energy topics.
“I’m excited to continue working with our talented team to serve our members and tell the electric cooperative story,” Bell said. “As co-ops work to meet today’s energy needs and build a better tomorrow for local communities, this is a pivotal moment. It’s an honor to have this opportunity, and I am excited to get to work.”
Prior to joining NRECA, Bell served as communications director for Congressman Steve Scalise (LA-01).
The National Rural Electric Cooperative Association is the national trade association representing nearly 900 local electric cooperatives. From growing suburbs to remote farming communities, electric co-ops serve as engines of economic development for 42 million Americans across 56 percent of the nation’s landscape. As local businesses built by the consumers they serve, electric cooperatives have meaningful ties to rural America and invest $15 billion annually in their communities.
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