Schneider Electric Appointed New Advisory Services Lead
The firm replaced its long-tenured leader to maintain the growth trajectory of its sustainability and automation consultancy.
Updated on Oct. 5, 2026 in People
Schneider Electric named Lena Henry as the new Head of Advisory Services, succeeding Steve Wilhite. Henry, who joined the company in 2023, will now manage the global practice focused on energy efficiency and digital transformation.
Why it matters
The leadership transition marks a shift for the advisory unit, which helps client companies navigate complex energy, electrification, and automation challenges. As the division matures, the incoming leadership is tasked with turning sustainability initiatives into tangible business outcomes.
The leadership change concludes a 25-year tenure for the outgoing executive who oversaw the division since its launch. The firm continues to lean on the expertise gained following its 2011 acquisition of Summit Energy.
The players
Schneider Electric
A multinational corporation specializing in energy management, automation solutions, and industrial digital transformation.
Lena Henry
The new Head of Advisory Services who previously held roles at McKinsey, EssilorLuxottica, and Whirlpool.
Steve Wilhite
The departing executive who led the advisory services division for 25 years, including time at Summit Energy.
The details
Lena Henry will oversee the execution of the firm's advisory strategy, which assists clients in applying electrification and automation to solve operational challenges. She brings experience from previous roles at Whirlpool, EssilorLuxottica, and McKinsey to the position. Her focus remains on driving measurable sustainability goals through the existing consulting infrastructure.
Timeline
2011: Schneider Electric acquired Summit Energy.
2023: Lena Henry joined the company.
October 2025: SE Advisory Services launched.
October 2026: Lena Henry was appointed to her new role.
Market Landscape
The advisory services unit originated from the 2011 acquisition of Summit Energy and has evolved into a global consultancy for enterprise energy needs. This transition reflects the common industry cycle of rotating leadership as specialized consulting practices scale beyond their founding teams.
Operators currently utilizing Schneider Electric's consulting services should monitor how this transition impacts existing service agreements and sustainability project timelines. The shift from a long-tenured leader suggests a potential change in the unit's tactical focus on measurable client outcomes.
The takeaway
Leadership changes at major service providers often signal an incoming shift in the consulting methodology or project priority. Business owners should review current advisory contracts to ensure project deliverables remain aligned with the firm's stated push toward measurable business outcomes.
Further reading
For broader trends in industry leadership changes, visit our People section.
