10 Things You Didn’t Know about NextEra Energy CEO James Robo
If you’re familiar with a company called NextEra Energy, then you might be familiar with its Chief Executive Officer, James Robo. There is no question that he is a unique and dynamic individual but you might like to find out a little more about him. If that’s the case, then you just might want to take the time to read through the list below, all so you can find out 10 more things about him.
1. He’s been involved with several companies in the past
This isn’t necessarily something that should surprise you. As a matter of fact, there are plenty of business professionals who routinely move up the ladder. In some cases, that means that they move from one company to the next. They often do this for a variety of reasons, not the least of which involves finding better pay, an improved schedule, or even better benefits.
2. He really doesn’t like to be called by his full name
His given name is James but he much prefers to be called Jim. In reality, he’s rather quick to correct anyone who does call him James and ask them to call him by his preferred nickname instead. It’s often been said that he does this because he feels like the name James is too formal.
3. He’s not as strict as some CEOs
He brings that exact same sense of levity to his job. Many people who work with him are surprised at the fact that he prefers to keep things light. Most have become used to working around CEOs that are very strict, even stuffy. Neither of these terms would ever likely be used to describe Robo.
4. He likes to surround himself with people who know their job and are self-motivated
There is a reason that he can bring a lighter atmosphere to the boardroom. He hires people who know their job and aren’t afraid to get in there and do it to the best of their ability. He doesn’t have to worry about whether or not they are doing what they should be doing, nor does he have to be concerned with them making a lot of mistakes.
5. He also serves another important position
You might think that this job would keep him busy enough but he doesn’t stop there. He serves as Director for both Florida Light & power and JB Hunt Transport. Clearly, he thrives on the idea of staying busy and making positive changes wherever he can.
6. He graduated from Harvard with a rather unique major
When he went for his Bachelor’s degree, his chosen major was European History. This is not only a unique choice, but once that’s difficult to achieve. That being said, he did it with relative ease.
7. When people discover his major, they’re often surprised that he’s a businessman
Upon hearing about his chosen major, many people automatically think that he would be an educator, perhaps in a college or university environment. That’s why some are surprised when they discover that he is in fact a business professional.
8. He was recognized for being very studious in college
When he went to college, he received the Baker Award, something that is only given to the best and brightest students. Just being accepted to Harvard is something worth celebrating but to receive this award really puts the icing on the cake.
9. He gives back to his Alma mater
He has very fond memories of Harvard and he does everything he can to give back. As such, he provides not only monetary contributions but also contributions of his time. His goal is to make sure that other students who are up-and-coming have the same chances for success that he did.
10. He prefers to stay busy as opposed to having a lot of down time
As you might have already imagined, he doesn’t really like the idea of having a lot of time on his hands. When he’s not busy with his job as CEO, you can usually find him working with one of his other aforementioned activities. He claims that he just doesn’t like the idea of not having something to do so he makes sure that he is involved in enough things to keep him busy.
