The Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO) has announced two executive leadership appointments set to take effect from late August 2025, following the retirement of a senior member of its leadership team.
Merryn York, AEMO’s executive general manager (EGM) system design, will retire after a 30-year career in the energy sector. York previously served as CEO of Powerlink Queensland for eight years and as a commissioner with the Australian Energy Market Commission.
During her tenure at AEMO, York led the development of the Integrated System Plan and oversaw planning functions in Victoria. She also contributed to reforms in the onboarding and connection process across the National Electricity Market.
“Merryn has championed a collaborative approach to delivering AEMO’s forecasting and planning responsibilities,” the organisation stated.
Nicola Falcon, currently interim EGM Western Australia, will take over the system design portfolio. Falcon has been with AEMO for 11 years and has previously acted in a number of senior roles including EGM system design and EGM reform delivery.
“Nicola… has deep experience in the area, including roles as group manager for Victorian planning and connections, leading AEMO’s planning and forecasting functions and the 2018 and 2020 Integrated System Plan,” AEMO said.
Falcon’s move into the system design role paves the way for the arrival of Kirsten Rose, who will join AEMO as EGM Western Australia and strategy. Rose is currently deputy chief executive at CSIRO, where she has played a key role in developing the agency’s new Strategy and Engagement sector.
“Kirsten joined CSIRO in 2020 as executive director, future industries … before being appointed deputy chief executive in 2024,” the statement said.
Rose’s previous roles include CEO of the Sustainable Energy Association of Australia, head of innovation and sustainable operations at BHP, and chair of the Defence Science Centre of Western Australia.
AEMO thanked York for her significant contribution, leadership and dedication and welcomed Falcon and Rose to their new roles.
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