Butler Rural Electric Cooperative’s general manager, Michael L. Sims, has announced his retirement. His last day at the cooperative will be April 3.
Sims began his career at the cooperative as the work order clerk in 1976. In 1981, he was promoted to be the cooperative’s assistant treasurer. On January 1, 1982, Sims became the cooperative’s general manager. During his career at Butler, Sims represented the members, employees, and trustees in a positive and esteemed manner. He has served on several statewide and national boards, including the marketing committee, United Utility Supply board of directors, and the Buckeye Power board of trustees.
Sims was part of the original steering committee that first explored the concept of a national advertising campaign, later creating the Touchstone Energy brand. He served on the Touchstone Energy board of directors from 2005 to 2010, and was its chair during his last three years.
Over the course of his career, Sims has been honored with many awards, including the Touchstone Energy Distinguished Service Award, the brand’s highest honor, presented annually to a cooperative employee or director who has made outstanding contributions to building the brand on the national stage. Sims also accepted the Live United Award from the United Way of Oxford, which recognizes people and organizations who make a difference in their community. Sims was given the award after demonstrating community commitment for over 44 years at the cooperative and in his personal life.
A celebration in honor of Sims will be held on Wednesday, March 25