Brenda Craig Named DTE Energy’s Chief Communications Officer

DETROIT, Oct. 21, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — DTE Energy announced today that Brenda Craig will step into the role of Chief Communications Officer on Thursday, Oct. 30. She takes over from Paula Silver, who is retiring after a distinguished career spanning ten years at DTE.

During her tenure, Silver established a world-class communications team that transformed the company’s interaction with its stakeholders. She developed new channels for communication, enhancing engagement with employees, customers, and community members while providing strategic direction for DTE’s corporate citizenship initiatives.

Craig, who brings a wealth of experience from her previous position as vice president of Integrated Communications at Henry Ford Health, will now oversee all aspects of DTE’s communications and brand strategy. In her former role, she managed communications and public relations across an expansive network serving 50,000 team members and over two million patients.

DTE President and CEO Joi Harris praised Silver’s contributions, saying, ‘Paula exemplifies our company’s dedication to improving people’s lives with our energy. I will personally miss Paula’s leadership and friendship, and I wish her all the best in her next chapter.’

Harris expressed confidence in Craig’s ability to strengthen DTE’s connections to its customers and communities. ‘Brenda shares our passion for service, and with her proven track record of effective and caring leadership, I’m confident she will continue to deepen and strengthen our connections among our customers, communities, and team members.’

Craig noted the parallels between the healthcare and energy sectors, stating, ‘Like healthcare, energy is essential for building healthy communities and helping people live their best lives. I’m excited to join a company dedicated to serving Michigan’s communities with safe, reliable, and affordable energy, especially at this pivotal moment.’

In addition to Craig’s appointment, the DTE Foundation will now be led by Evette Hollins, DTE’s vice president of Customer and Community Engagement, while Rodney Cole continues as the president and board chair.

Reflecting on her career, Silver commented, ‘The past ten years have been the perfect capstone for my 40-year career. I have had the good fortune of leading an amazing team of communications professionals and serving incredible senior leaders, all focused on taking care of our customers, communities, and team members.’