A Prince George’s Suite Magazine Q&A With Tom Graham

Tom Graham retired from Pepco Holdings, Inc. (PHI) in June 2016. At the time of his retirement, Pepco Holdings employed more than 4,700 people, owned more than $16.1 billion in assets, and generated approximately $4.8 billion in annual revenues. Pepco Holdings serves 2 million customers as the parent company of Pepco, an electric utility serving Washington, D.C. and suburban Maryland; Delmarva Power, an electric and gas utility serving Delaware and the rest of the Delmarva Peninsula; and Atlantic City Electric, an electric utility serving southern New Jersey.

During his 30-year career, Graham held several leadership positions that included president, Pepco region; regional vice president; manager strategic accounts (large commercial engineering design and construction); and manager billing services & investigations. His career at PHI concluded on the Executive Leadership Team as vice president of People Strategy and Human Resources. During his tenure, Graham received numerous prestigious energy industry, business, higher education, and civic awards. In 2016, he founded a boutique government affairs, utility construction, supplier diversity, and community relations strategic consulting firm, T.H. Graham & Associates. The firm is MBE and CBSB certified in Prince George’s County.

Currently, Graham serves as a director for The University of Tampa, WMATA, Green Branch Foundation (chairman), Boys & Girls Club of Greater Washington Prince George’s County Chapter, Greater Prince George’s Business Roundtable, Summit Utilities, and Midwest Reliability Organization. Graham has also served as the chairman of the Center for Energy Workforce Development and the Maryland Chamber of Commerce. Other affiliations include the American Association of Blacks in Energy (past D.C. Chapter president), Old Line Bancshares, LLC, Prince George’s County Economic Development Corporation, Prince George’s County Liquor Board (chairman), and Leadership Prince George’s (past president). Most recently, Graham was named chairman of the Prince George’s County COVID Forward Task Force for the Economic Recovery Work Group.

Prior to joining Pepco, Graham played soccer professionally for the Jacksonville Tea Men and served as Goalkeeper Coach at Georgetown University for 20 years. In 2018, he was inducted into the St. John’s College High School Athletic Hall of Fame. In 1988 and 2014, he was inducted into the University of Tampa Athletic Hall of Fame. Graham has a bachelor’s degree in business administration from the University of Tampa. In 2005, he completed the Senior Executive Leadership Certificate Program at Georgetown University.

Prince George’s Suite Magazine: The corporate boardroom has always seemed like an exclusive club. For professionals who aspire to be in that space, how does one even begin the journey to becoming a corporate board talent?

Graham: It does seem exclusive, and in many ways, it is. But that exclusivity doesn’t mean it’s impenetrable. The key to stepping into the boardroom is understanding that boards aren’t just looking for prestige; they’re looking for expertise and strategic value. Your journey begins with knowing what unique perspective and skill set you bring to the table. If you can clearly articulate that and align it with what a board needs, you’re already ahead.

Prince George’s Suite Magazine: What specific skills and experience do companies look for in board candidates?

Graham: Companies seek candidates who can contribute to governance, risk management, and long-term strategy. The most sought-after board members often have strong financial acumen, regulatory expertise, or deep industry knowledge. Increasingly, boards also prioritize leaders with technology, cybersecurity, and ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) experience. If you have a track record of leadership, problem-solving, and decision-making at a high level, you have the foundation for board service.

Prince George’s Suite Magazine: If someone doesn’t have C-suite experience, do they still have a shot at landing a board seat?

Graham: Absolutely. While it’s true that many board members come from the C-suite, boards are becoming more diverse in their talent acquisition. If you’re a subject-matter expert—whether in technology, risk management, or diversity and inclusion—you may be a valuable asset. It’s about demonstrating that you can add value to board discussions and oversight.

Prince George’s Suite Magazine: What role does networking play in securing a board position?

Graham: Networking is absolutely crucial. Board opportunities aren’t typically advertised like traditional jobs. Many board appointments happen through referrals, which means your professional network must be strong and strategic. Build relationships with current board members, attend industry events, and engage with organizations that focus on board readiness. Don’t be afraid to express your interest—people need to know that you’re looking for opportunities to serve.

Prince George’s Suite Magazine: How important is it to have a strong personal brand when positioning yourself for board service?

Graham: It’s incredibly important. Your brand is essentially your professional reputation—what people say about you when you’re not in the room. Boards want individuals who bring credibility, leadership, and a strong sense of ethics. Make sure your LinkedIn profile, speaking engagements, and published work reflect your expertise and leadership philosophy. Being intentional about how you present yourself in the industry can make all the difference.

Prince George’s Suite Magazine: What should an aspiring board candidate do to get noticed by search firms and board recruiters?

Graham: First, make sure your board resume is polished and highlights governance experience, even if it’s from nonprofit or advisory roles. Then, connect with executive search firms that specialize in board placements. Firms like Spencer Stuart, Russell Reynolds, and Heidrick & Struggles actively seek candidates for board roles. Let them know you’re interested and have the qualifications to contribute at the board level.

Prince George’s Suite Magazine: How can serving on nonprofit or advisory boards help prepare someone for corporate board service?

Graham: Nonprofit boards are a great training ground. They allow you to gain governance experience, understand board dynamics, and develop the strategic thinking required at the corporate level. Many companies value leaders who have successfully served on nonprofit or advisory boards because it demonstrates a commitment to stewardship and oversight. It’s a great way to build your credentials while making a meaningful impact.

Prince George’s Suite Magazine: Once someone lands a board seat, what can they do to be an effective and influential board member?

Graham: Preparation is key. You need to thoroughly understand the company’s financials, risks, and strategic direction. Effective board members actively listen, ask insightful questions, and provide guidance without overstepping management. Also, continue learning—board governance and industry landscapes evolve, so staying informed and adaptable is critical.

Prince George’s Suite Magazine: Any final words of advice for those looking to enter the boardroom?

Graham: Be intentional and patient. This process takes time, but if you position yourself strategically, keep expanding your network, and remain persistent, opportunities will come. Bring value, stay engaged, and remember—every board seat is about service, stewardship, and leadership. If you focus on those, you’ll not only get into the boardroom, but you’ll thrive once you’re there.