Impact Spotlight Series: Energy, Authenticity, & Leading Through Risk with Rich Filler
We had the pleasure of speaking with Rich Filler at Impact 2025, a leader known for combining deep technical insight with an authentic, human approach to leadership. In this conversation, Rich shares his perspective on navigating change, leading with integrity, and the importance of staying hands-on, even when the stakes are high.
Q: What’s one lesson you’ve learned about leadership that you wish you’d known earlier in your career?
Rich:
Be your authentic self. Bring your whole self to work. It’s okay to make mistakes, you’re human. When I was younger, I’d look at leaders and assume they were perfect. But the truth is, everyone makes mistakes. Others may not notice them, but you remember. And that’s okay. Being real, not perfect, is what builds true credibility.
Q: How is the utility industry changing, and what excites you most about where it’s going?
Rich:
We’re in the middle of an energy transition and being part of that is incredibly exciting. There are so many new ideas and technologies coming online, while at the same time, there’s active debate and planning around base generation. The answers to these challenges aren’t simple, they’ll need to be solved dynamically, over time. It’s a complex, evolving puzzle, and I’m proud to be contributing to it.
Q: What’s something you believe about business or leadership that others might not agree with?
Rich:
There’s a tendency to assume that great leadership doesn’t require subject matter expertise, but I disagree. Leadership skills are essential, yes, but I think leaders should also spend more time understanding their content or domain. Knowing your topic, not just managing the people around it, makes a difference. You can’t guide effectively if you don’t grasp the terrain.
Q: What’s one trend or challenge you think business leaders across all industries should be paying closer attention to?
Rich:
The dynamic of a retiring workforce is still very real. Some may think that wave has already passed, but it continues. There are generational shifts happening that bring new perspectives and expectations. Leaders need to pay close attention to this, there’s wisdom we risk losing, and new talent we need to guide and understand. Bridging that gap is crucial.
Q: Can you share a moment or experience that really shaped how you lead today?
Rich:
Years ago, I was asked to step into a project that was struggling, politically and operationally. A senior leader told me, “If you take this on and it goes badly, you could lose your job.” But I didn’t hesitate. I couldn’t stand by and watch the team fail without trying to help. I took the role, dove in, and fortunately, it worked out. That experience reinforced for me that leadership means showing up when it’s hard, even when there’s personal risk involved. Sometimes you just have to get your hands dirty and solve the problem.
Rich’s message is a timely reminder that great leadership isn’t just about vision, it’s about action, empathy, and expertise. As the utility industry navigates unprecedented change, his commitment to authenticity and problem-solving offers a valuable blueprint for leaders in every field.
