Chuck Spencer
Note: The following is a copy of the message that B&W Y-12 President and General Manager Chuck Spencer sent to employees on Friday.
I wanted to be the first to tell you about these organizational changes, but given the speed of media you may have already heard them from other sources. If so, I apologize.
When I arrived at Y‑12 in August of 2012, the site had just experienced a significant security event and was at a very low point. However, we immediately set about to work together to rebuild security and to regain the confidence of our many stakeholders. To do that, we have gone through much change and worked tirelessly. What I am most proud of is how we immediately became more introspective. How we all began to question virtually every aspect of our business. Not just security, but operations, maintenance, our assurance system, development, engineering, etc. We did this not because we were performing poorly in these areas, but because that is what a good company does. It is willing to look at itself with a critical eye so that it can be the best at what it does. I am very proud of what you have accomplished in the year and a half you have allowed me to be a part of your team and am confident that you are well prepared for a great future. Given that, it is with mixed emotions that I need to inform you that I plan to return to my position as chief operating officer for B&W’s Technical Services Group.
Effective Feb. 1, Dave Richardson will take over as the president and general manager for B&W Y‑12. Dave has over 32 years of diverse nuclear operations and management experience and has done an outstanding job here as our deputy general manager of operations. Dave came in shortly after I did and has been a tremendous asset for me and for Y‑12. I have full confidence in Dave, and I know Y‑12 will flourish under his leadership.
Linda Bauer will take over for Dave as senior vice president and deputy general manager of operations. Linda is a proven leader as well and has done an outstanding job as vice president and division director of Facilities, Infrastructure, and Services. I asked Linda to join me when I came to Y‑12 and, as always, she has made a real difference. Replacing her will be Elester (Lester) Patten. Lester, too, is a proven leader and has made major contributions to FI&S.
While I do look forward to returning to my position with B&W in Charlotte, and will continue to be involved in both Y‑12 and Pantex, I will truly miss all of you.
Stay safe, secure and strong.
Chuck
B&W Y-12 operates the Y-12 National Security Complex in Oak Ridge for the National Nuclear Security Administration.
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